PAVILION – January 1, 2022- COVID POSITIVE RESIDENT = 1

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COVID UPDATE – January 1, 2022 – Pavilion

NEW COVID POSITIVE CASES = 1 resident

TOTAL COVID POSITIVE CASES = 1 (1 resident | 0 staff)

MOST RECENT COVID CASE = January 1, 2022

We are sorry to bring the news that one resident at Pavilion has tested positive for COVID through a rapid test. This test was done as a result of exposure with a COVID positive individual. The resident has been instructed to isolate and monitor their symptoms. Support is provided to the resident by their loved ones.

Meals will be delivered to residents at their apartment suite until further notice.

What does a COVID positive rapid test look like? It takes 15 minutes to find out!

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What does a COVID positive rapid test look like?

Pink blotting disappears after 15 minutes: The rapid test takes a full 15 minutes for the pink blotting to disappear. In the photo, below, the top test is COVID positive (red arrow). This test was left, prematurely, by a visitor who then entered resident space.
Positive line is quite faint: The faint positive line doesn’t usually appear until the pink blotting disappears. The test on the bottom has not finished its 15 minutes as there is still pink blotting.
Why wait full 15 minutes? After dropping the drops on the test, it does take 15 minutes to see the pink blotting disappear. The key to protecting our residents is to wait the full duration of the test to catch the positive test.
A moment in time: A rapid test does not provide a definitive answer as to whether or not an individual is COVID positive. Rather, it provides an answer to whether or not they are COVID positive at the time of the test. The result is dependent on the viral load within that individual at the time of testing.
For example – a resident was with relatives overnight. Upon returning, they took a rapid test and the test was negative. The next day, they were informed that a relative was COVID positive during their visit. They took another rapid test (24 hours after the first one) and found that they, too, are COVID positive.
Rapid tests are working to provide safety: Rapid tests are detecting COVID positive visitors and staff each day on our campus. The results don’t “last” for days and must be done again each time there will be contact with a resident.
How to implement in Independent Living? For those who are providing support for residents in Independent Living, we will need to find a workable system to ensure tests are available for you to do in order to add this layer of safety to their lives.
Would you take a supply and do them prior to arriving? One idea is to provide you with a supply of rapid tests that you can do at home prior to arriving to visit your loved one.
Other ideas? We are open to ideas that will help us to implement this layer of protection without diminishing the support that residents receive from their essential visitors.
Omicron could be very different… We are aware that once Omicron enters our apartment buildings, it will be challenging to stop the spread as it is the most transmissible of all the variants.
THANK YOU! Thank you for your ideas and your faithful care for your loved one(s) in this challenging time.
Provide any feedback to connect@mennoplace.ca

MEMO FOR ALL APARTMENT RESIDENTS – TE, TW, PAVILION

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MEMO 

Date:  December 29, 2021  

To: TE, TW, Pavilion Residents  

Re: COVID-19 Positive in Primrose Gardens – TAKE EXTRA PRECAUTIONS 

COVID-19 POSITIVE – PRIMROSE GARDENS 

A resident of Primrose Gardens has been identified as COVID positive. Those in contact with the resident have been swabbed for COVID and are waiting for their test results.  

ALL APARTMENT BUILDINGS: As the Omicron variant of COVID becomes VERY prevalent in our community, the likelihood of contracting COVID-19 increases for us all. This is the time to take extra precautions to keep yourself safe. As a member of a vulnerable population and a resident on a campus-of-care, you need to exercise extra safety measures. 

EXTRA PRECAUTIONS: The Omicron variant of COVID is extremely transmissible and can infect those who have had all vaccinations (including 3rd booster shot) as well as those who previously tested positive for COVID. Take ALL precautions, including self-isolating for your own protection. Wear a medical mask (do not wash) provided in the foyer. Take 2 or 3 to carry with you so you always have one available. 

VISITORS: Your visitors must have a negative rapid test result before entering the apartment building/your suite. All (you and your visitor) must wear a mask at all times, including in your suite while visiting. Use hand sanitizer frequently and wash hands with warm, soapy water often. No unvaccinated people are permitted inside the apartment buildings, including your family members, housekeepers, service providers or friends. 

GET PREPARED FOR LOCKDOWN: This is a good time for your essential visitors to ensure you have EVERYTHING you need in your apartment. Ensure you have medications, groceries and clean laundry for the next 7 – 10 days. 

KEEP YOUR CONTACT GROUP SMALL: It is time now to reduce your contact with people to only those who provide you with essential services such as laundry, driving to essential appointments and grocery delivery. Visit with others on the phone instead of in person, even within this apartment building. 

WHAT IF YOU ARE FULLY VACCINATED? Omicron is infecting those who are fully vaccinated, including those who have the 3rd booster shot. Your illness will likely be more mild than if you were not vaccinated, but it can still be very debilitating or even cause hospitalization or death. 

ESSENTIAL OUTINGS: This is a good time to reduce your outings to essential outings only, such as medical appointments. Choose to watch church online or on Channel 10. Since the Omicron variant is so prevalent in our community, it’s better to have an essential visitor bring you groceries if possible.  

WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE SYMPTOMS? If you have any of the symptoms on the list below, go immediately to the Haida Center for a COVID-19 gargle or nasal swab test (PCR). Tell them that you live on a campus of care and that you are part of a vulnerable population. This will get you priority access to the testing. 

WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE BEEN EXPOSED TO SOMEONE WHO HAS COVID? Take a rapid test to see if you are positive at this time. If you are, go to the COVID test center for a PCR test to confirm the diagnosis. If you are negative, isolate and re-take the test in 24 hours. 

WHAT TO DO WITH TEST RESULTS? Phone Reception to report all test results, including rapid tests. If there is no answer, leave a voicemail message. 

RAPID TESTS: You may also ask for a rapid test from Reception or the Dining Team. This test is a simple test that will tell if you have enough viral load at that moment to indicate if you are positive for COVID-19. It is not a definitive test. A PCR test is still required (gargle or nasal swab).  

WHAT ABOUT THE COMMON COLD? The common cold is VERY intense this year. If you have cold symptoms AND received a negative gargle or nasal swab test, you likely have a cold. DO NOT SPREAD IT. Stay isolated until symptoms are gone.  

Do you have any of these COVID symptoms – even mildly? Get tested for COVID and let us know: Reception: 604.851.4000 

Fever or chills?  Cough? Unproductive cough? 
Sore throat? Runny nose?  Extreme fatigue or tiredness? 
Body aches? Muscle aches?  Diarrhea? 
Difficulty breathing?  Loss of sense of smell or taste? 
Loss of appetite?  Headache? Nausea or vomiting? 

 

PRIMROSE GARDENS – December 29, 2021- COVID POSITIVE RESIDENT = 1

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COVID UPDATE – December 29, 2021 – Primrose Gardens

NEW COVID POSITIVE CASES = 1 resident

TOTAL COVID POSITIVE CASES = 1 (1 resident | 0 staff)

MOST RECENT COVID CASE = December 29, 2021

We are sorry to bring the news that one resident at Primrose Gardens has tested positive for COVID through a rapid test. This test was done as a result of exposure with a COVID positive individual. A PCR test (nasal swab) has been done – results are pending. Tablemates of this resident have all tested negative to rapid testing.

Screening has been put in place at the entrance of Primrose Gardens.

This is the memo that will be distributed to all residents of Primrose Gardens:

MEMO 

Date:  December 29, 2021  

To: Primrose Gardens Residents  

Re: COVID-19 Positive in Primrose Gardens 

COVID-19 POSITIVE – PRIMROSE GARDENS 

A resident of Primrose Gardens has been identified as COVID positive. Those in contact with the resident have been swabbed for COVID and are waiting for their test results. Residents who have been tested MUST ISOLATE until further notice from Public Health. 

DINING: While we wait for the test results and direction from Public Health, the dining room will be closed. Your meals will be delivered to your apartment suite until further notice. 

EXTRA PRECAUTIONS: The Omicron variant of COVID is extremely transmissible and can infect those who have had all vaccinations (including 3rd booster shot) as well as those who previously tested positive for COVID. Take ALL precautions, including self-isolating for your own protection. 

VISITORS: Your visitors must have a negative rapid test result before entering the apartment building/your suite. All (you and your visitor) must wear a mask at all times, including in your suite while visiting. Use hand sanitizer frequently and wash hands with warm, soapy water often. No unvaccinated people are permitted inside the apartment buildings, including your family members, housekeepers, service providers or friends. 

GET PREPARED FOR LOCKDOWN: This is a good time for your essential visitors to ensure you have EVERYTHING you need in your apartment. Ensure you have medications, groceries and clean laundry for the next 7 – 10 days. 

KEEP YOUR CONTACT GROUP SMALL: It is time now to reduce your contact with people to only those who provide you with essential services such as laundry, driving to essential appointments and grocery delivery. Visit with others on the phone instead of in person, even within this apartment building. 

WHAT ABOUT IF YOU ARE FULLY VACCINATED? Omicron is infecting those who are fully vaccinated, including those who have the 3rd booster shot. Your illness will likely be more mild than if you were not vaccinated, but it can still be very debilitating or even cause hospitalization or death. . 

ESSENTIAL OUTINGS: This is a good time to reduce your outings to essential outings only, such as medical appointments. Choose to watch church online or on Channel 10. Since the Omicron variant is so prevalent in our community, it’s better to have an essential visitor bring you groceries if possible.  

WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE SYMPTOMS? If you have any of the symptoms on the list below, go immediately to the Haida Center for a COVID-19 gargle or nasal swab test (PCR). Tell them that you live on a campus of care and that you are part of a vulnerable population. This will get you priority access to the testing. 

WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE BEEN EXPOSED TO SOMEONE WHO HAS COVID? Take a rapid test to see if you are positive at this time. If you are, go to the COVID test center for a PCR test to confirm the diagnosis. If you are negative, isolate and re-take the test in 24 hours. 

WHAT TO DO WITH TEST RESULTS? Phone Reception: 604.851.4000 to report all test results, including rapid tests. If there is no answer, leave a voicemail message. 

RAPID TESTS: You may also ask for a rapid test from Reception or the Dining Team. This test is a simple test that will tell if you have enough viral load at that moment to indicate if you are positive for COVID-19. It is not a definitive test. A PCR test is still required (gargle or nasal swab).  

WHAT ABOUT THE COMMON COLD? The common cold is VERY intense this year. If you have cold symptoms AND received a negative gargle or nasal swab test, you likely have a cold. DO NOT SPREAD IT. Stay isolated until symptoms are gone.  

Do you have any of these COVID symptoms – even mildly? Get tested for COVID and let us know: Reception: 604.851.4000 

Fever or chills?  Cough? Unproductive cough? 
Sore throat? Runny nose?  Extreme fatigue or tiredness? 
Body aches? Muscle aches?  Diarrhea? 
Difficulty breathing?  Loss of sense of smell or taste? 
Loss of appetite?  Headache? Nausea or vomiting? 

 

HOSPITAL E1 – December 26, 2021- ENHANCED MONITORING OVER

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COVID UPDATE – December 26, 2021 – E1 Hospital Enhanced Monitoring OVER

NEW COVID POSITIVE CASES = 0 staff or residents

TOTAL COVID POSITIVE CASES = 1 (0 residents | 1 staff)

MOST RECENT COVID CASE = December 16, 2021

E1 Hospital off of Enhanced Monitoring effective Dec. 26, 2021.

Add 15 minutes BEFORE your visit – Point-of-Care Rapid Testing is Now Mandatory for all Visitors to LTC and AL

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Effective immediately:
A rapid test with a negative result is required to enter Menno Home, Menno Hospital or Terrace East.
This is by order of the Public Health Officer.

Visiting Hours:
The COVID rapid test will be provided by the Visitation Host between 10am and 6pm. Phone the nurse to arrange a visit outside of these hours for essential visitors.

In order to enter, you must show proof of vaccination, government issued ID card and a negative rapid test result.

Please watch these two short videos on how to perform a Rapid Point-of-Care test:
CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO

From the Ministry of Health:
In recognition of the increased transmissibility of the Omicron variant of concern and given the vulnerability of the Omicron variant of concern and given the vulnerability of residents in long-term care and assisted living, even when fully vaccinated themselves, individuals visiting long-term care homes (both essential and social visitors) must be screened for COVID-19 by receiving a rapid point-of-care (POC) test prior to their visit.

Rapid POC tests provide the opportunity to rapidly screen people for COVID-19, with results ready in approximately 20 minutes. These tests can help reduce the potential for introduction and spread of COVID-19 in long-term care. The rapid POC screening requirement for all visitors is in addition to the current requirements for visitors to be fully vaccinated and to adhere to infection prevention and control measures.

Visitors who receive a positive rapid POC test result, choose not to receive a rapid POC test, or who do not demonstrate that they are fully vaccinated will not be able to enter the long-term care or assisted living building, including passing through the facility to access an outdoor space.

There are no exceptions to the rapid POC screening requirement based on medical exemption from vaccination, essential or social visitor status, including compassionate visits related to end-of-life. The rapid POC screening requirement in long-term care excludes children under age 12.

  • Visitors who receive a negative test result, provide proof of full vaccination, and are compliant with masking requirements and other infection control practices will be able to enter a facility.
  • Visitors who are screened as having symptoms or who receive a positive test result will not be able to enter a facility. They are required to self-isolate and seek further direction from public health. Their test result must be reported to Public Health.
  • Individuals who receive an inconclusive test result will be required to undergo another rapid POC test.
  • There are no exceptions to the rapid POC screening requirement based on medical exemption from vaccination, essential or social visitor status, including compassionate visits related to end-of-life. Rapid POC screening in long-term care and assisted living excludes children under age 12.

We thank you for all your hard work in keeping yourself safe, and in caring for your loved one in a time that is stressful and ever-changing.

Sharon Simpson
Director, Community Enrichment

HOW DO YOU DO A RAPID TEST?

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Learn how to do a rapid test – visitors are asked to rapid test before visiting in Assisted Living and Long Term Care. Rapid tests are available for visitors in Independent Living through Reception.

Read more

Visiting at Christmas – Come 15 minutes early to rapid test

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Visiting on Christmas & Boxing Day

Visitation Hosts will greet you, screen you and wish you a wonderful Christmas visit from 10am – 6pm on Christmas Day and Boxing Day! They will also ask you to take a rapid test before entering.

RAPID TESTING – AN EASY SAFETY MEASURE – STRONGLY ENCOURAGED
Please arrive 15 minutes BEFORE your visit to take a rapid test. This is a simple test (Q-Tip in your nostril) that takes 30 seconds to perform and 15 minutes to provide results.
We have recently found a COVID positive visitor through our rapid testing. This is an additional layer of protection for our residents.
Omicron is a particularly contagious variant of coronavirus and can appear without symptoms.
We urge you to protect your loved one, their neighbours and our staff by taking this additional 15 minutes to ensure you are not bringing COVID into Menno Place accidentally.

APARTMENTS
Rapid tests are available through the Receptionist or through the dietary team in the Pavilion kitchen.

HOSPITAL E1 – December 23, 2021- ENHANCED MONITORING – COVID POSITIVE STAFF = 1

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COVID UPDATE – December 23, 2021 – E1 Hospital Enhanced Monitoring

NEW COVID POSITIVE CASES = 0 staff or residents

TOTAL COVID POSITIVE CASES = 1 (0 residents | 1 staff)

MOST RECENT COVID CASE = December 16, 2021

All results of the initial COVID testing came back negative for residents and staff.

One visitor tested positive through the rapid testing process.

Enhanced monitoring continues. If there are no further COVID positive staff or residents, we expect that we may come off of Enhanced Monitoring on December 26th.

Notice of Enhanced Monitoring from Fraser Health

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December 16, 2021

Dear Residents and Families of Menno Hospital,

We are writing to notify you that someone at Menno Hospital was diagnosed with COVID-19. The Fraser Health COVID-19 Public Health team is working with the staff and medical staff at the home to identify anyone who may have been exposed and to take steps to protect the health of all residents, staff and medical staff. Our Medical Health Officer has not declared a COVID-19 outbreak at this time.

This exposure does not mean that your family member is sick with COVID-19. Residents, staff and medical staff will be screened twice-daily for any signs of illness. Those who develop symptoms will be isolated, tested for COVID-19 and provided the care they need. We will keep you up-to-date on any changes related to your family member’s health status.

The health and safety of residents, staff and medical staff is our first priority and a responsibility we take very seriously. To date, as part of our proactive management, Fraser Health has worked to ensure enhanced measures are in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19 at this home.

Your loved one may be required to isolate based on their exposure risk and COVID-19 vaccination status. We know that staying away from your loved one is very difficult and we appreciate your cooperation with this request with the goal of keeping residents, staff and medical staff healthy. Essential visits will continue.

Staff and medical staff at this home will continue to provide care and services to our residents to enhance their safety and well-being while maintaining routines where it is safe to do so.

For general information about COVID-19, call 8-1-1, or visit HealthLinkBC: https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/health-feature/coronavirus-covid-19.

If you have further questions, please contact Smitha, Director of Care, 604.859.7631