Dear Residents, Families, and Associates of Byron Park,
This letter is to provide additional information about our current COVID19 cases. As of today, we have 10 active associate (staff) cases and one independent living resident positive for COVID19.
Gratefully, our resident and team remain stable and will stay home until cleared by local health authorities. As a reminder, part of our response to this case includes a full review and notification to any individuals who may have had exposure and close monitoring to follow. Any parties that meet the criteria of exposure were notified prior to you receiving this letter. In accordance with patient privacy laws, additional details about the associates including position or department worked, or any identifying resident information including floor lived on will be provided only by healthcare authorities, if appropriate.
We would also like to remind you it is Byron Park policy for all third-party vendors (private caregivers, contractors etc.) to participate in our extensive testing/screening programs and notify the front desk of any known exposures. Due to the nationwide shortage of antigen tests and the current COVID19 surge, we have reserved antigen (rapid) tests for residents, Byron Park staff and private caregivers with known exposures or COVID19 symptoms only. We do, however, continue to offer PCR testing to all visitors and guests of Byron Park. All parties must wear a surgical mask or higher-grade mask for the duration of their visit/shift.
As of today, the county positivity rate for the last 14-day average is 15%, a record high for the pandemic. The trend in positive COVID19 cases we are seeing in our community is in alignment with the spike in Contra Costa County.
As part of our containment effort, we will continue testing all associates, residents, and vendors weekly. Our current suspension of communal dining and programs will continue until we are clear of COVID-19 for 2 consecutive weeks. We know that upholding the four pillars of safety (masks, screening, social distancing, and handwashing) coupled with frequent testing significantly reduces the risk of spread of COVID-19. With increased testing, we may see an increase in positive results, however, this information will greatly aid our fight against COVID-19 which remains prevalent around us. We understand the sacrifices our residents, families and associates make every day to protect themselves and each other and appreciate everyone’s effort for the common good. Our top priority is to contain spread, monitor those who have tested positive for a full recovery, and to keep our entire campus safe through diligence with safety protocols. If you would like to discuss this further, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Warm Regards,
Jennifer Pastora, Executive Director