HENRICO COUNTY, Va. – A second resident of Westminster Canterbury Richmond, a retirement community, has tested positive for COVID-19.
A spokesperson tells CBS 6 that the resident resides in Independent Living and is being treated in the hospital.
Westminster Canterbury’s first case, a man in his 80s who had recently returned from extended travel in Florida, was confirmed on March 16. He has since recovered and returned to his residence at the retirement community,
“In both cases, Westminster Canterbury has worked closely with public health officials, who are partnering with Westminster Canterbury healthcare staff. Virginia Department of Health officials, in collaboration with Westminster Canterbury, are now determining who may have come into contact with the second resident,” said the spokesperson.
Nearly 900 people live in apartments and homes inside the 50-acre community, according to facility CEO and President John Burns.
Westminster Canterbury released this timeline of their response to COVID-19:
· On March 4, staff began tracking the travel plans of residents, staff and their families in order to monitor those travelling to affected areas.
· On March 11, as soon as a case was confirmed in greater Richmond, Westminster Canterbury took strides to lock down the campus, closing the campus to visitors and screening everyone who entered campus, including all staff members, with questions and temperature screenings.
· On March 17, after the first case was confirmed at Westminster Canterbury, all residents went into self-quarantine, staying in their apartments and limiting interactions. Self-quarantine measures have been in place ever since. All needs of residents are attended to by staff.
Depend on CBS 6 News and WTVR.com for the most complete coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic.
COVID-19 Precautions
Most patients with COVID-19 have mild to moderate symptoms. However, in a small proportion of patients, COVID-19 can lead to more severe illness, including death, particularly among those who are older or those who have chronic medical conditions.
COVID-19 spreads primarily through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Symptoms include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Symptoms appear within 14 days of being exposed to an infectious person.
Virginia health officials urged the following precautions:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer only if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.Stay home when you are sick.
- Avoid contact with sick people.Avoid non-essential travel.