McCormick Care Group – COVID-19 Update

Friday, July 16, 2021

This is a McCormick Care Group – COVID-19 Update for Friday, July 16, 2021. 

Today, the province enters into Step Three of the Roadmap to Reopen Plan. While this news is most welcome and has been a long time coming, we all need to remain vigilant regarding COVID-19 as the Delta variant continues to be a risk within our community and across the province.  As the threat of COVID-19 continues, I thank you in advance for your ongoing dedication and commitment to keeping the home and each other safe.

Rapid Testing – As of today, please be reminded that individuals who are fully immunized are no longer required to complete rapid testing to gain entry into long-term care.  If an individual chooses not to disclose their vaccination status, then the testing requirements remain as set out in the Ministry Directive.  As we have now entered into Step Three, the frequency of testing will be reduced to every three days, or a maximum of twice weekly.  For confirmation purposes, an individual must show proof of their vaccination status to be exempt from rapid testing.

Many families and staff have inquired if they can still continue to access rapid testing if they wish. I have confirmed with Dr. Summers, Associate Medical Officer of Health with the Middlesex-London Health Unit, that this option is available.

General Visitors – After discussion and consultation with Dr. Summers, the home continues to ask that indoor and outdoor visitors notify the home in advance of their intention to visit.  We will continue this practice until the end of August, when it will be re-evaluated based on activity related to COVID-19 in the community.

I will hold a family Zoom meeting next week upon my return from vacation on Wednesday, July 21, 2021, at 6:30 p.m. to review the changes and answer any questions you may have.  The Zoom details will be sent out in a separate e-mail next week.

We thank you for your patience as we ensure that the safety of our home remains our top priority.

Have a wonderful weekend,

Tanya Pol,
Administrator