COVID-19 Update - January 4, 2021
South Court 3rd Floor Outbreak
We’re sorry to advise that late yesterday Fraser Health’s Medical Health Officer declared on outbreak on the 3rd floor of South Court. This affects assisted living and independent residents who live on the 3rd floor, as well as staff who work in the building. The 1st and 2nd floors are not in outbreak. No other KinVillage buildings are affected.A resident of the 3rd floor of South Court was recently confirmed with COVID-19, having contracted the virus while out in the community. After swabbing two other residents on the weekend, we were notified that one of these, who lives on the 3rd floor, also tested positive. This evidence of transmission occurring in the building resulted in an outbreak, limited to the 3rd floor, being called. The two COVID-19 positive residents are in isolation in their suites and are being monitored closely and cared for by staff. All remaining 3rd floor residents are being swabbed for the virus today. Any staff member who may have been exposed in South Court will also be swabbed.In addition to existing Public Health and Fraser Health infection control measures already in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19 (e.g. twice daily monitoring of all residents and staff; enhanced cleaning protocols), all residents of South Court’s 3rd floor must remain isolated in their suites until further notice. Meals are being delivered to these residents and social visitors are not allowed. Staff are taking extra precautions.The timing of this outbreak is regrettable. However, we’re hopeful it can be contained based on past experience in South Court, continued staff diligence, and Pfizer vaccinations underway. Although 3rd floor residents are not eligible for the vaccine at this time, residents of the other two floors, as well as staff, are. While we’re all excited about the promise offered by vaccines, it’s clear that this very contagious virus is circulating more widely in our community. Thank you for continuing to adhere closely to Public Health recommendations designed to prevent its spread.
Immunization Program
We’re thrilled to report that an immunization clinic is being held at KinVillage today for Care Home and South Court (assisted living and independent living) residents and staff who consent to receive the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. A team from Public Health arrived this morning to deliver the first of two doses; those who receive the first dose will be notified when they are able to receive their second dose. While we’re excited that these immunizations will provide an added level of safety for residents and staff, all Public Health Officer orders and guidelines (e.g. physical distancing, wearing a mask, frequent handwashing) remain in place for everyone, even for those who have received the vaccine.For comprehensive Information about COVID-19 and KinVillage, including the current outbreak, go to KinVillage.org