Update from administrator 2-6-23
DATE: 02/6/2023
Dear Residents, Families and Representatives,
I am writing to inform you that a staff person tested positive for COVID-19 within our community yesterday. We have not identified any residents that had a significant contact with this staff person. If any are identified they will be tested per the recommended CDC guidance. We will test any staff person or resident who is concerned that they have been exposed or if they develop any symptoms. Identifying those who are in the early stages of the illness is important to help contain the spread within our home.
Rolling Hills continues in outbreak status. An outbreak is defined as having any one or more staff or residents with a case of COVID. We will remain in outbreak status until we have no additional cases for 14 days. Covid-19 is circulating in our schools, local communities and other area nursing homes and senior living facilities. Monroe County is back into the high community transmission rate.
All residents are strongly encouraged to wear masks when out of their room or when coming in close contact with others. Please wash hands and use hand sanitizer frequently and maintain distance when possible.
Residents, staff and visitors are strongly encouraged to stay up to date with vaccinations against COVID and influenza Recent studies have shown that older adults who have received the most recent bivalent COVID-19 vaccinations are having good immune response to the current strains and are better protected than those who have not stayed current with vaccinations as well as those who have had COVID-19. Vaccination provides the best defense against serious illness, hospitalization and death. Older Age, pre-existing medical conditions and certain medications may lower the immune system and put the individual at higher risk of contracting COVID and having a more serious illness. Using multiple strategies like vaccination, wearing a mask and good hand hygiene improves the odds of avoiding COVID and reduce the chance of serious illness. Most of our residents are up to date with vaccinations but for those who may be behind on boosters, we can assist with scheduling the vaccination.
Visitors should be cautious and use good infection prevention practices such as wearing a mask and washing your hands prior to and after visiting. Families and friends of residents should not visit when experiencing any signs of illness to prevent spreading it to others within our home. We are happy to help coordinate a virtual visit or phone call until you feel well again and can visit in person. Residents are allowed visits and outings with families and friends while we are in outbreak status, however, it is important to be cautious and try to prevent spread of any illness.
We will keep you up to date if any new cases of COVID are identified. If you have any questions please reach out.
Stay well,
Linda Smith NHA
Administrator