Dear Patients, Families and Community:
I am writing to share the most up-to-date information on the status of COVID-19 at Manassas Health & Rehab Center.
COVID-19
As of today, one additional staff member has tested positive for COVID-19. Patients were tested yesterday, and we anticipate receiving their results by the end of the week. Staff were also tested yesterday using an antigen test with no additional positive test results. Staff will be tested again on Thursday. Since August, 19 patients and 12 staff members have tested positive for the virus, and the majority have now recovered.
Mitigation
The symptoms of COVID-19 and seasonal allergies can be very similar as depicted in the diagram below that was published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Some individuals may experience only slight symptoms or may not display any symptoms. When screening patients and staff members, we take every symptom very seriously and investigate further to rule out COVID-19.
Testing
CMS has given nursing facilities flexibility in choosing the data source for county/city positivity rates. Based on feedback received from the Virginia Department of Health (“VDH”), we believe that VDH data is more representative of the positivity rates in our local community, and we have decided to use this data source moving forward. The current COVID-19 positivity rate for Prince William County as reported by VDH is 6.0%. Patients and staff will be tested every 3-7 days until the Center is without a positive test result for a 14-day period in accordance with CMS guidelines.
PPE
We continue to have an adequate amount of PPE in the Center. Staff members receive routine education on the appropriate use of PPE for the protection of patients and the staff.
Visitation
Due to the Center’s outbreak status, we are currently offering virtual and outdoor visitation. Please contact the Center and we will make every effort to accommodate your schedule. While our team is focused on patient care first and foremost, keeping you informed of your loved one’s condition is equally important to us.
Thank You
The continued support of the local community and our community of patient families is greatly appreciated by staff and patients alike. COVID-19 has changed the way we interact with patients and families, but it has not changed our commitment to service excellence and providing quality care with each interaction. As always, feel free to reach out to me directly with concerns or questions.
Sincerely,
Katelyn Whittington, LNHA
Administrator
