Man in inflatable tree costume accidentally spreads COVID all over hospital

According to a statement from the Kaiser Permanente San Jose Medical Center, the costume contained two air-circulating fans that may have spread the infected droplets all over the surrounding area.

The first case was detected on December 27 and a total of 44 people have tested positive for COVID-19. The one individual who died was a registration clerk in the ER, NBC Bay Area reports.

Senior vice president Irene Chavez said, "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."

"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," she continued. Chaves also addressed the infected individual in the costume, saying they were "well-intentioned" but acted "without advance notice or approval," in regard to wearing to costume.

Infected staff remain in isolation and are being closely monitored.