From: Kirk Hawthorne, Administrator/CEO – Saint John XXIII Home
To: Residents, Family Members & Staff
The COVID positivity rate continues to climb in Mercer County PA. With that in mind, we remain in a “lock down”, no visitation mode at this time. As required by the CDC, CMS and the PA Dept Health, we will remain in “lock down” / phase 1 of re-opening until the County rates decline AND the facility achieves two (2) consecutive weeks of zero (0) positive cases amongst staff AND residents. I fully recognize the frustration this virus has created for our residents, family members and staff. We will continue to do our best to keep everyone safe and we ask that you do your part as well. Please continue to pray.
On a very positive note, we tested ALL residents within the Nursing Home, Personal Care Unit and Special Needs unit today (12/2/20) and I’m thrilled to report that ALL residents tested NEGATIVE for COVID-19. In addition, no residents or working staff members are showing signs or symptoms of COVID. Another round of resident testing will take place on 12/9/20.
Unfortunately, we tested all staff members on Monday (11/30/20) and had two (2) staff members test positive. These staff members are currently at home isolating. Fortunately, contact tracing revealed that there was zero (0) resident exposure related to these new staff cases. In addition, effective today, we are requiring all staff to wear an N-95 mask while in the facility. This is an aggressive attempt to help mitigate any possible staff to staff and/or staff to resident exposure. Another round of staff testing will take place on Thursday 12/3/20.
Lastly, Saint John XXIII Home has entered into a contract with CVS pharmacy to administer the vaccine once it is released. The planning phase of vaccine administration is currently in process between CVS and Saint John XXIII Home. As you know, definitive dates have not been established but progress is being made. I will keep everyone posted regarding our plan and dates as soon as they are released.
I want to publicly thank everyone for their support and trust over the past 8+ months. In addition, I want to thank all staff members of Saint John XXIII Home for the selfless acts and for being amazing during these times. Rest assured that each and every staff member is doing everything in their control to keep the residents and co-workers as safe as possible.
Please continue with 6+ feet physical distancing, wash your hands, wear a mask and pray for each other.