An employee working at a California hospital facing a COVID-19 outbreak, potentially linked to an inflatable Christmas tree costume, has died from complications from the virus, according to a report.
The registration officer worked in the emergency department on Christmas day – on the same day, an employee wore an “air” suit to spread joy at Kaiser Permanente San Jose Medical Center, KNTV reported.
She was one of 43 staff members who contracted the virus between December 27 and New Year’s Day, hospital officials said.
The hospital is investigating whether the fan of the suit spread expired air breathing drops by a person infected with the virus.
“Any exposure, if it had taken place, would have been completely innocent and quite accidental, because the individual had no COVID symptoms and only sought to lift the spirits of those around him during a very stressful time,” said Irene Chavez, senior vice president and downtown area manager told the San Francisco Chronicle.
The hospital released a statement late Sunday to offer condolences to the victim’s loved ones.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with those affected by this terrible loss. We offer assistance to our employees in this difficult time “, the statement says, reports the Los Angeles Times.