Dear Residents, Family Members, and Friends,
Protecting our residents’ health and safety is our top priority. We want to share with you how Oak Creek Senior Living is handling concerns about the respiratory illness known as Coronavirus. The current COVID-19 situation means that it is critical that we take every precaution possible to prevent this virus from entering our facility.
The CDC has conducted a careful review of the death rate in the elderly, especially those with dementia or chronic diseases. Experts are recommending we take action to limit individuals from entering our building and to ensure sick employees stay home.
Early data shows:
‣ The mortality rate for people over 80 in the general population is 15% in China.
‣ The World Health Organization report estimates the mortality rate at 21.9% for those over 80.
‣ At the nursing home in Washington state, there have been 50 residents who have tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. As of March 9, 2020, 19 of those have died. This is a high death rate.
‣ There is a risk that people who appear healthy will enter nursing homes and infect residents.
‣ Studies of past viral epidemics where recommending prevention was delayed were not effective.
‣ These studies show that the sooner we limit interactions with each other and wash your hands frequently virus spreads more slowly.
These facts have led many to recommend severe limitations on visitors. This describes why we have taken this action now. We hope this explains to you why we are asking people to limit their visits. This may prevent you from physically seeing your family member or friend. Our residents’ health and safety are our top concerns. We are committed to doing everything we can to protect them.
Our staff is increasing sanitation frequency and protocol and are meeting daily to monitor the COVID-19 virus situation and how it may affect Oak Creek Senior Living.
Thank you for entrusting the care of your loved one to us here at Oak Creek. We pride ourselves in providing the best care for your family because they become part of ours. Please feel free to contact Winona or Deana at 785-272-2601 with any questions.
Sincerely, Winona Kegin LPN/Operator
Below are some best practices for you to consider that are effective not only in preventing the spread of the Coronavirus but also the common cold or flu:
‣ Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
‣ Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
‣ Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
‣ Stay home when you are sick. Please don’t visit if you or someone you have been in close contact with has shown signs of the flu or cold recently.
‣ Cover your mouth and nose with the inside of your elbow when you cough or sneeze.
‣ Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
You may find more resources and information on the COVID-19 virus here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html