News

During the last week, Arbutus Park continued to conduct COVID-19 testing on all nursing/personal care residents and manor employees. As of Friday, December 18th, the test results show 2 new positive cases of COVID in the residents and 7 positive tests for staff members. The affected residents were moved to a COVID Care Unit where they will be cared for by a nursing care team dedicated to that unit.

 

We also had 4 new deaths in residents who had COVID documented as their secondary cause of death during the week period. Sadly, our total deaths related to COVID-19 is at 27. We ask that you keep their families in your prayers.

 

Since our first case of COVID-19, 64 residents of Arbutus have recovered from the virus.

 

At present, all non-positive manor residents are being tested for the coronavirus weekly. All non-positive employees up to this point are being tested twice a week. Immediate rapid tests are also run on anyone who is showing potential COVID-19 symptoms. This will continue until directed otherwise by the Pennsylvania Department of Health. All employees are wearing full protective equipment when providing direct care to residents.

 

VACCINES

We have received word that our first vaccine doses will arrive and be distributed on December 29, 2020, for both residents and staff. We have partnered with CVS Pharmacies to administer the vaccines. The treatment is a two-step process, with the second inoculation occurring three weeks after the first. Residents, or their power of attorney, must complete Consent Forms ,sign them, and return them to Arbutus before the vaccine can be given.These Consent Forms will be emailed out early next week and it is VERY IMPORTANT that all the information is completed and returned to Arbutus. The vaccine is not mandatory for residents or staff but we strongly encourage everyone to get vaccinated so we can continue this fight against the COVID-19 virus.

 

We want to give our sincerest appreciation to the wonderful family members who have been so understanding of what is being experienced at Arbutus Park. Their acceptance of the changes we’ve had to make to some of their loved one’s lives has been a blessing to us all. We are committed to continue our fight against this pandemic the best we are able and be completely forthcoming with information for our families.