Mix up at Hamilton lab resulted in 14 people given incorrect COVID-19 test results

A processing error at Hamilton Regional Laboratory Medicine Program resulted in 14 people receiving incorrect COVID-19 test results.

Two of the false-positive tests played a role in outbreaks being declared at two Hamilton schools, Lisgar Elementary school and Bishop Ryan Catholic Secondary school. 

Hamilton public health has since rescinded the outbreaks.

Seven other people who were told they did not have the virus actually did. All individuals who received incorrect test results have been contacted.

In January the lab made a similar mistake with 31 people getting the wrong results.