Dear Residents, Families, and Associates of First Colonial Inn,
I have wonderful news to share again in that the results of our 3rd round of COVID-19 Pooled Testing came back negative! In this round we collected saliva samples from two groups on Monday, a total of 154 people. One group was comprised of residents who have left the community within the last 2 weeks while the second group was comprised of our associates along with the employees of Silver Strands Salon and Genesis Rehab.
As we continue to receive negative results this allows us to keep the shelter in place restrictions lifted for any resident who leaves the community, whether on their own or in our transportation, as long as they participate in the Pooled Testing twice weekly (Monday and Thursday) for two weeks following any outing. Residents who choose to stay within the community are asked to participate in the Pooled Testing once per week (Thursday). As shared previously, with adequate participation in Pooled Testing, we can detect Covid-19 very early, isolate any positive individual(s), minimize the spread to others, and eliminate the requirement for residents who leave the community to shelter in place.
At this time, we are still limiting visits to the community to approved Essential Visitors only and/or via the usage of the Indoor or Outdoor Visit Stations. As a reminder, our front entry should remain free and clear of residents and family members gathering as this is our single point of entry and exit and designated area for dropping off and picking up items. The traffic flow in this area needs to remain fluid to ensure the safety of our residents and associates. We appreciate your observance and understanding of this protocol.
Please keep in mind that it is very important to note that in order for this program to be effective, your participation in this simple, non-invasive testing is critical. Thank you for your support, and please remember that while this testing can provide an excellent line of defense in the fight against Covid-19, this can only work if we continue to be vigilant with social distancing, hand hygiene, ongoing health monitoring, and mask use (worn over nose and mouth correctly at all times when residents are outside of their apartments and anytime associates or guests are inside the community or outside on the property).
We thank all of you for your continued support of FCI as we navigate through this pandemic together. Our continued positive thoughts and prayers for everyone’s good health are with each of you. Please let me know if you have any concerns or questions. We appreciate your questions, feedback, and support.
Sincerely,
Chrissy Driscoll, Executive Director