COVID-19 Communication Update
22 August, 2021
Dear Regina Health Center Community,
I am writing to share good news: the results of our COVID testing are finally in and I’m happy to report that there are no additional positive cases among either the residents or the employees! We sent 237 samples, which included all residents and all employees, and the test results reveal no further spread of the coronavirus this week. Thanks be to God!
According to CMS and CDC guidance, visitation is once again permitted, as before, and residents are permitted to leave the facility as well. We will continue to utilize the same protocol for visitation, taking a cautious approach for the health and well-being of our residents. This was a close call, and we are blessed that no one else is positive. We are requesting that masks be worn at all times, even during visits. Although it may seem inconvenient, it is a very small and reasonable compromise to ensure the well-being of your loved ones. Of course, masks have always been a requirement for employees at all times throughout the pandemic. The added measure of safety afforded by masking of residents and guests during visits is a wise investment in caution.
We must test everyone again this week, per CMS guidance. If there are any positive test results from that round of testing, we will need to suspend visitation again. We are hopeful – and confident – that all the measures we are taking will result in continued negative test results for everyone. Please say a prayer that this comes to pass!
Once again, I want to point out that the best way to eradicate the coronavirus is to be vaccinated. Science tells us that if the virus has no hosts in which to replicate and spread, it will cease to be a threat. This is not my opinion – this is scientific fact. This week, thousands of our fellow Americans have died from the coronavirus, but not a single person has died from the vaccine. Even our Holy Father has advocated for vaccination. In an address to the American people, Pope Francis said, "Being vaccinated with vaccines authorized by the competent authorities is an act of love. And contributing to ensure the majority of people are vaccinated is an act of love." He added: "Vaccination is a simple but profound way of promoting the common good and caring for each other, especially the most vulnerable."
Thank you for your continued support. Our employees continue to work heroically to care for and safeguard your loved ones. God’s blessings to you!
Sincerely, Deacon Mark Yantek Executive Director