Previous COVID-19 Outbreak
March 26, 2021

As many of you are aware, River View on the Appomattox Health & Rehab Center has had previous COVID-19 outbreaks. With the initial two positive test results being reported on July 27, 2020, the Center immediately placed all patients under transmission-based precautions and staff began using full PPE. The Center had previously implemented the CDC’s recommended infection control and prevention measures.

The Center has worked collaboratively with the Crater Health District throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. The screening of patients and staff members increased from daily to once each shift for patients and at the beginning and end of each shift for staff once the initial outbreak occurred. 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 2 patients and 1 staff member tested positive for COVID-19 during the initial outbreak. One additional staff member tested positive for the virus in September 2020. An additional outbreak began on December 18, 2021 with a total of 87 patients testing positive for the virus. It is with great sadness that we report 18 patients passed away with a diagnosis of COVID-19. A total of 40 staff members tested positive, all of which recovered and were able to return to work. Additional isolated cases resulted in 2 patients and 4 staff members testing positive in February and March.

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 receive ongoing training in infection prevention measures, proper donning and doffing of PPE and current 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 and with the support of the local Health Department and was able to resume admission of new patients following each outbreak. All new patients are requested to have a COVID-19 test prior to admission. As an added safeguard, all newly admitted patients are placed under transmission-based precautions 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.