Coronavirus CT: Yale Health Executive Tests Positive, More Cases

NEW HAVEN, CT — Yale New Haven Health confirmed that several patients across its health system tested positive for the new coronavirus.

"We have now confirmed that several patients across our Health System have tested positive for COVID-19. This is not unexpected as the CDC and public health officials made it clear that community transmission is occurring in the state of CT. However, it does underscore the nature of this virus which requires ongoing diligence and monitoring," Yale New Haven Health officials said Saturday.

Additionally, chief nursing executive Beth Beckman tested positive and is self-isolating at home. Meanwhile a member of the Yale University community has tested positive on a preliminary test.

"Beth is doing well and remains engaged in our daily operations," said Yale New Haven Health CEO Marna Borgstrom.

Yale Health Director Dr. Paul Genecin wrote in a letter to the Yale community that a Yale University community member tested positive. Another community member and household contact are undergoing evaluation and tests. The test results for the other two haven't been completed yet.

Yale Health is for members of the Yale community. Yale New Haven Health encompasses the community system which includes Bridgeport Hospital, Greenwich Hospital, Yale New Haven Hospital, Northeast Medical Group and Lawrence+ Memorial Health.

The state reported a total of 11 positive coronavirus cases in Connecticut as of 4 p.m. Friday, however, a Rocky Hill woman tested positive Friday evening after the count. The total number of new confirmed tests Saturday has not yet been released by the state Department of Public Health.

"Of course, the fact of these first cases has significant implications for the university," Genecin wrote. "I have been in close touch with President Salovey, who is continuing to benefit from the advice of Yale experts who have helped guide the university’s ongoing response to COVID-19. The president will write to the community to give news of any new decisions affecting the university."

Yale New Haven Health chief clinical officer Dr. Thomas Balcezak has been exposed to the coronavirus, but has tested negative and has no symptoms. He is self-quarantined at home for the next 14 days as his wife tested positive. Balcezak also continues to work from home. (Don't miss Connecticut coronavirus updates as they are announced live. Sign up for Patch news alerts and newsletters.)

Borgstrom said the new cases don't come as a surprise because health officials know that community transmission is occurring in Connecticut.

"As always, our top priority remains the safety of patients, visitors and everyone that works throughout the Yale New Haven Health System," Borgstrom said. "Anyone that has come into direct contact with a person who has tested positive for COVID-19 should self-monitor and, should symptoms arise, contact their primary care physician directly."

Yale New Haven Health staff are being reminded to follow protocol and to not report to work if they have respiratory issues or fevers over 100 degrees.

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