Interior Health says the COVID-19 outbreak on surgical unit 6 South at Royal Inland Hospital is over.

The health authority says there were 10 patents who tested positive for the virus during this second outbreak, which began on June 30. No staff members tested positive for the virus.

“I want to thank all of our hospital workers for their tireless efforts in identifying and containing this outbreak,” Kamloops Medical Health Officer, Dr. Carol Fenton said.

“I really feel that the swift action and containment of this outbreak is a testament to RIH staff’s experience in COVID-19 outbreak management and also a demonstration in the effectiveness of the vaccines.”

Earlier in the week, Fenton told NL News that the vaccine is the best tool in the fight against the virus.

In a statement, Interior Health says the surgical unit 6 South has fully reopened to admissions.

“As COVID-19 restrictions begin to lift across the province, it will remain important to follow public health guidance, including washing your hands regularly and wearing a mask if you are not fully vaccinated or if you are in a place that requires it – such as a health care setting,” Interior Health added, in its statement.

During the first COVID-19 outbreak at RIH in January and February of this year, there were 105 total cases reported – 69 staff and 36 patients – along with four deaths.