43 California hospital employees test positive in COVID outbreak possibly linked to Christmas costume

Dozens of employees at a California hospital have tested positive for COVID-19 since Christmas, according to health officials.

At least 43 employees at Kaiser Permanente in San Jose were diagnosed between Dec. 27 and Jan. 1 in an outbreak that officials believe may be linked to an “air-powered costume” with a fan that may have spread the virus throughout the hospital.

“Any exposure, if it occurred, would have been completely innocent, and quite accidental, as the individual had no COVID symptoms and only sought to lift the spirits of those around them during what is a very stressful time,” Irene Chavez, senior vice president and area manager of the hospital, said in a statement to ABC 7.

“If anything, this should serve as a very real reminder that the virus is widespread, and often without symptoms, and we must all be vigilant.”

Chavez said the hospital is following quarantine and contact tracing protocols to find anyone else who may have been affected by the outbreak. All emergency department employees and physicians are undergoing COVID-19 rapid testing.

“Even as the vaccine is beginning to be provided in our communities, given the prevalence of COVID-19 in the community we are all still vulnerable and it remains critical for everyone to continue using the methods to help protect ourselves and others — especially masks, hand washing, avoiding gatherings and social distancing,” the statement reads.

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