April 2nd, 2021
Dear Resident:
This week, WWV had 1 staff member test positive for COVID-19 and NO residents. Therefore, WWV must continue to restrict indoor visitation except compassionate caregivers and essential caregivers at this time. However, outdoor visits are allowed. We are following recommendations from the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
MDH published guidelines for resident outings this week. Some highlights of the guidance include not quarantining residents who leave our care center for less than 24 hours unless exposed to positive case of COVID-19 or not adhering to infection control practices. Residents and families are still required to mask during these visits. This does require us to individually identify any risks and quarantine per assessment. Vaccinated residents can have close contact with persons they are visiting. The CDC Continues to recommend small gatherings as risk increases for large gatherings but reminds everyone that good infection control practices should occur both small and large gatherings. Please see our website for updated guidance on safe family gatherings from MDH. (Long-term Care Guidance for Outings – Minnesota Dept. of Health (state.mn.us))
As of this week, 80 percent of seniors have gotten at least one dose of coronavirus vaccine as well as 38 percent of residents aged 50 to 64. More than 1 million Minnesotans are now fully vaccinated and 1.66 million, or 38 percent have gotten at least one shot. On Tuesday, March 30th, Minnesota expanded vaccine eligibility to all Minnesotans ages 16 and up. Although vaccinations are ramping up, Minnesota’s seven-day rolling average positivity rate has been increasing, and as of the latest data, it is at 5.3%, putting the state in the “caution” status.
We encourage you to do your part in stopping the spread of COVID-19 by connecting with your primary health care provider or using the Vaccine Locator map (Vaccine Locations / COVID-19 Updates and Information – State of Minnesota (mn.gov)) to find a vaccine appointment near you. Please continue to wear face masks, social distancing, wash your hands often and get tested if you have been exposed to someone who has tested positive or are experiencing COVID symptoms.
Please follow our Facebook page (@Morris Health Services & @Skyview Senior Living) or our website (www.mhs.sfhs.org) for all COVID updates and information on what is happening inside our care center. Please do not hesitate to reach out to Paula at 320-589-7900, if you have any questions or concerns.