Today, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH) notified Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center (PVHMC) that a patient who presented to the hospital on March 9, 2020, was confirmed positive for the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

The patient presented to the hospital’s Emergency Department by ambulance in full cardiac arrest and staff immediately provided lifesaving care to stabilize her condition.

Upon arrival of the patient’s family member, who disclosed the patient’s travel status, and evaluation of the patient’s symptoms, staff followed all infection control protocols set forth by LACDPH and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The patient was immediately placed in isolation and LACDPH was notified of the potential case. With approval from LACDPH, samples were submitted to the public health lab for COVID-19 testing. Unfortunately, the patient died shortly after admission due to complications from their illness.

“Our highly-trained staff followed all appropriate infection control protocols and took every precaution in caring for this patient, who tragically succumbed to their complications,” said Daniel Gluckstein, MD, Medical Director of Infectious Disease at PVHMC. “We extend our deepest condolences to the patient and family. At this time, our top priority remains protecting public health and ensuring the safety of our patients, visitors, Associates, physicians, volunteers and community.”

The hospital has identified all staff who came into contact with the patient while providing care and is following all LACDPH guidelines regarding healthcare worker exposure.

We understand people are feeling anxious about potential exposure to coronavirus, but we want to reassure our patients and their families that the risk of exposure from this case is low. PVHMC remains a safe, high-quality facility to seek medical care.

For more information, call the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health.