The Northwestern Health Unit (NWHU) has declared a COVID-19 outbreak at Rainycrest Long Term Care Home as a result of two staff members testing positive. In addition to the protocols instituted by the NWHU related to close contacts of these individuals, we are implementing additional precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
The Home continues to test staff every 7 days, with the introduction of Rapid Antigen Testing scheduled for the week of March 1, 2021, this frequency will increase to twice weekly at minimum. Rainycrest will test all residents in the Home immediately. Visitation is now restricted, with the only exception being for palliative residents. These measures are necessary to protect all residents and staff of the Home. Riverside Health Care (Rainycrest) and the Northwestern Health Unit continue to work collaboratively to address the current outbreak.
We have been informed that vaccines for consenting long-term care residents and staff, and priority hospital staff will begin to arrive in Emo, Rainy River and Fort Frances during the week of March 1.
Our Riverside Team appreciates the continued support of residents, patients, clients, families, staff, physicians, and our Board as we navigate the ever changing landscape of COVID-19.
