Update from the Administrator 3/24/2023
DATE: 03/24/2023
Dear Residents, Families and Representatives,
We have had a total of nine residents and one staff person test positive for COVID 19 during the past few days. All residents in the nursing home and CBRF were tested on 03/23/23 and we are waiting for test results. We are using PCR and rapid tests to provide quick and accurate results. Anyone who is symptomatic is receiving both a rapid test and the more accurate PCR tests. PCR tests can take a couple days for results but are more accurate. The rapid tests give quicker results but may not be as accurate for those who aren’t showing symptoms or are early in the infection period.
Staff are also being tested to identify any new cases. Individuals who are not showing symptoms can still test positive for COVID and can easily spread it to others without even being aware that they have the virus. We will continue to test per the CDC recommendations and keep you up to date on what is happening. If a resident tests positive we will notify the resident and their representative as soon as we have results. In this case no news is good news! If you have any questions about your tests results please contact your nurse.
Residents who test positive may choose to have antiviral medications to treat COVID after consultation with their physician. There are several factors the attending physician will consider when determining if treatment is a good option. Resident medical providers are consulted for all residents who test positive or exhibit symptoms.
It can take 3-14 days to develop symptoms or test positive after exposure so we may continue to see additional cases pop up. The COVID 19 variants that are prominent now spread very easily and are good at evading our immune response. We are stressing good infection control measures such as wearing masks properly (over the mouth and nose), good hand hygiene, disinfection of frequently touched surfaces and keeping a good distance from others when possible.
Visitors should consider their own health and be aware of the risk of visiting in person. For some it may be wise to wait to visit until the outbreak subsides. If family or friends decide to visit in person be sure to wear a mask, hand sanitize and limit visiting to only your resident. We can also accommodate visits by phone or video. Just let us know how we can help you keep in touch. As the weather warms, outdoor visits in our courtyard are also a good way to reduce the risk of transmitting COVID.
Thus far residents with COVID are experiencing relatively mild symptoms and we are hoping they all have a speedy recovery.
If you have any questions or concerns please reach out.
Stay well,
Linda Smith LNHA
Administrator