Previous COVID-19 Outbreak
June 27, 2022

As many of you are aware, Chase City Health & Rehab Center has previous outbreaks of COVID-19. With the first positive test result being report on May 6, 2020, the Center immediately placed all patients under isolation precautions and staff began using full PPE. The Center had previously 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.

Prior to receiving the first positive test result, the Center worked collaboratively with the Mecklenburg County Health Department. Once an outbreak occurred, the Health Department provided both onsite and telephonic support on a daily basis. 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.

A total of 162 patients have tested positive for COVID-19 since May 2020. A total of 112 staff members tested positive for the virus.

The Center has a trained infection preventionist who continues to assist the staff in monitoring patients more 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. 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 created a cohorting plan for patients and staff for use when an outbreak occurs in the Center. As an added safeguard, newly admitted patients whose COVID-19 status is unknown and patients who display symptoms of COVID-19 are placed under isolation precautions, if appropriate, in 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.