We know many of you are concerned about the spread of COVID-19 (the new coronavirus) and how it may impact your loved ones at Harbor’s Edge. We continue to closely monitor the confirmed cases of Coronavirus (COVID-19). As of today, there are 17 confirmed cases in the state of Virginia, and yesterday, Governor Ralph Northam declared a state of emergency. At this time, we don’t have any known cases at Harbor’s Edge.
Ensuring residents are cared for in a safe and healthy environment is our first priority. A COVID-19 Task Force has been established. With Dr. Ed Lilly as the Chairman of the group and other professionals, including Dr. Brown, Dr. Oldfield, Dr. Horev and various members of the management team, the Task Force is meeting frequently to evaluate and implement the rapidly changing recommendations from the Virginia Department of Health and Centers for Disease Control.
In order to protect our residents, we ask that family and friends do not visit Harbor’s Edge for routine social visits. Out of an abundance of caution, we are limiting all visitors to our facility unless absolutely necessary. Some exceptions include end-of-life situations or when a visitor is essential for the resident’s well being. We are actively screening individuals, including staff, vendors and providers who come into the building. All group events that are not core to the functioning of the community will be postponed.
We understand that connecting with your loved ones is incredibly important, and there are a variety of other ways you might consider, including telephone, email, text, video chat or social media. We are working on providing additional ways of staying in touch with your loved ones, such as designated video chat devices.
If your planned visit is essential, we ask that you stop at the front desk for a screening process, wash your hands before and after your visit, go directly to the person you are visiting and minimize contact with others in the facility. We offer hand washing and alcohol-based hand sanitizers throughout the building, which you are welcome to use. Please avoid shaking hands and hugs with any individual. Maintain social distancing of 3-6 feet at all times.
Even in case of an essential visit, you will not be permitted to visit if:
- You have traveled out of the country or to the affected states in the past 14 days
- You have had contact with someone with or under investigation for COVID-19
- You have had any symptoms of infectious illness, including fever, cough or shortness of breath
This is a rapidly changing situation and we are taking all measures to keep our community safe. We are updated as things change and will be adjusted our plans as more information in learned. We will keep the residents and families apprised of what Harbor’s Edge is doing to keep all of us safe.
Elena Thorstensten, Health Services Administrator