Dear First Colonial Inn Associates, Residents, and Families,
I am writing as a follow up to our most recent COVID testing that was conducted on Wednesday, 12/9. As shared previously we made the decision to conduct this community wide PCR swab testing due to learning on Tuesday that we had one associate and one resident receive positive test results. We received the results of the 12/9 testing this evening and of the 240 people tested we have learned that one more Assisted Living resident has tested positive. This makes a total of 2 residents and 1 associate who are currently affected by the virus. At this time, we are relieved to share that both residents are asymptomatic. They will be monitored and cared for in their apartments under isolation precautions per CDC guidelines. The associate, who unfortunately is experiencing symptoms at this time, will remain at home to recuperate under isolation per the CDC recommended guidelines. Please keep these individuals in your thoughts and prayers.
After receiving these results, I am obviously sad that some of our FCI “family” is affected. We have gone quite a few months without having to face this virus directly. I applaud our residents and associates for taking the steps to be as safe as possible as this has helped us so much. It is obvious, as we are experiencing here and from what the news continues to share, that people can have the virus without a sign or symptom. Our best line of defense to minimize the effects of this virus on FCI is to continue to maintain our safety standards. We can provide an excellent line of defense in the fight against Covid-19 by: maintaining proper social distancing, wearing masks, hand hygiene and ongoing health monitoring, along with making safe decisions to limit leaving home/community as much as possible.
Now that we have received the results, and have taken the measures to isolate the individuals who are positive, we can safely resume the following:
- Small group programs and outings will resume effective Saturday, 12/12
- The Water’s Edge Dining Room service will resume on Tuesday, 12/15—we will send a separate update on Monday regarding reservations and seating availability
- The Silver Strands Salon will resume service next week per their schedule
- The Wellness Center (gym) and Montpelier Living Room will reopen on Saturday, 12/12
- Visit Station visits will resume on Saturday, 12/12
- FCI medical transportation appointments will resume routine schedule
We will also continue to conduct routine COVID surveillance testing two times a week for ALL residents, associates, and our essential visitors. Below is the testing schedule for this week:
MONDAY, 12/14 Pooled Saliva Testing
10a-1p in the Chesapeake Dining Room
THURSDAY, 12/17 Individual PCR Nasal Swab Testing
10a-1p* in the Chesapeake Dining Room
*Further details will be shared early next week with designated timeframes by floor to assist with the line and wait time.
We are very grateful to you for your continued support of FCI as we continue to 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