Previous COVID-19 Cases
July 14, 2022
As many of you are aware, Abingdon Health & Rehab Center has had previous sporadic cases of COVID-19 in staff members. The first positive test result was reported on July 15, 2020 with 1 additional case reported in August, 2 in September and 1 case in October. Prior to the first positive case, the center had implemented the CDC’s recommended infection control and prevention measures, which also included screening of patients and staff members for signs and symptoms of the virus.
An outbreak began in the Center on December 14, 2020 and concluded on February 9, 2021. Additional isolated cases were reported among staff members in early 2021. A second outbreak occurred in the fall of 2021. In total, 71 patients and 96 staff members tested positive for COVID-19 since July 2020.
Throughout the pandemic, the Center has worked collaboratively with the Washington County Health Department. Staff members with known exposure or symptoms were placed off from work and did not return until the CDC’s return to work criteria had been met. All of the positive staff members recovered and were able to return to work.
The Center has a trained infection preventionist who continues to assist the staff in monitoring patients frequently and ensuring infection control procedures are strictly followed. Staff have received training in infection prevention measures, proper donning and doffing of PPE and new clinical guidance from the CDC and VDH as it is received. The Center’s PPE supply continues to be adequate, and we are confident that we have the PPE we need in order to safely care for patients.
The Center has created a cohorting plan for patients and staff should there be any future positive cases. As an added safeguard, all newly-admitted patients whose COVID-19 status is unknown and patients who are displaying symptoms of COVID-19 are placed under transmission-based precautions on a dedicated area until they are determined to be COVID-free for their protection and the protection of other patients and the staff.
We are grateful for the support of the local community and the families of patients in the center who provided many gestures of kindness over the past several months. The staff have remained dedicated to ensuring that their patients receive quality care and loving compassion during this challenging pandemic.
