Update from the Administrator 10-12-2023

DATE: 10/12/2023

Dear Residents, Families and Representatives,

We had one resident test positive for COVID-19 today. We are testing all residents on Willow Lane as well as staff who have worked with the resident. All other tests conducted thus far have been negative. We are actively monitoring residents for symptoms. Symptoms of COVID-19 include runny/stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, body aches, diarrhea, vomiting and headache. Residents should notify staff immediately if they are not feeling well.

We will continue with mandatory masking for staff and visitors until we are out of outbreak and the level of COVID in the community is coming back down. Preventive measures include good hand washing, surface disinfection, wearing masks and use of hand sanitizer. These steps are for the protection of all individuals living, working and visiting Rolling Hills.

Residents may continue to have visitors, however, we are encouraging use of good safety measures. Visitors should wear masks, use good hand hygiene and check with staff for other required personal protective equipment that may be needed if a resident is on precautions. Visitors should also limit visits to only their resident and maintain distance from other residents and staff. If visitors have any symptoms of illness they should postpone visiting until they are feeling better and symptoms are gone! If a visitor develops COVID within a few days of visiting with a resident they should contact the nurse. We will do testing and monitoring of that resident for several days.

COVID is insidious in that it spreads before people develop symptoms or their symptoms may be so mild it doesn’t raise any alarms for them. Unfortunately COVID can be very serious, especially for older people and those with other health challenges. Infection prevention strategies can reduce the risk of getting and spreading illnesses including influenza, COVID and others.

We are still working with the Monroe County Health Department to set up COVID-19 vaccine clinics for residents and staff. The health department is still waiting for their shipment of the COVID vaccine. Residents or their representatives should let us know if they want to receive the vaccine so we can ensure that we receive enough doses. The new COVID vaccines have been reformulated to work more effectively with the current variants of the virus that are circulating. More information will be sent out prior to the vaccine clinics.

I will keep you informed of any new staff or resident cases. We are in outbreak status until we have 14 days with no further staff or resident cases. Please reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

Sincerely,

Linda Smith LNHA

Administrator