We want to provide an update on an exposure to COVID-19 within our Claridge Court community. We learned Wednesday, June 17, that one of our team members tested positive for COVID-19.  This team member had minimal contact with residents and other team members and is self-isolating at home with the support of our Human Resources team. Any new information regarding COVID-19 in our community will be provided to you when available, as appropriate.

If you are identified as having had prolonged contact with any individuals who test positive for COVID-19, you will be contacted and instructed to self-quarantine for 14 days, per the guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Johnson County Community Health Services and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.

We realize that this situation is concerning to you, and we are committed to being open and transparent, while respecting the privacy of those involved, as we deal with this unprecedented situation. We are implementing our pre-planned infection control protocols and continue to follow COVID-19 protocols at our community under the guidance of the health agencies.

Additionally, Claridge Court has activated our home office emergency response team, and we are working with health and infectious disease experts to take all appropriate steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and to protect our residents, team members, and the greater community. We will also continue to follow all CDC recommendations related to the control and prevention of the spread of COVID-19.

We know that the COVID-19 pandemic is of the utmost concern to you. We have been diligent and have taken precautions to help our community minimize the risk of exposure to the virus. Those precautions include following protocols for long-term care and senior living communities such as requiring the use of appropriate personal protective equipment and masks, as well as encouraging residents and team members to use hand sanitizer and wash their hands frequently. We have restricted gatherings in communal areas, and have suspended all private and public gatherings, including communal dining. We have also restricted visitors to our Health Center and continue to monitor essential caregivers who visit our community.

You should continue to practice social distancing and avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Regularly clean and disinfect objects you frequently touch, like your cellphone, using household cleaning wipes. If any of our residents has or is suspected of having the virus, appropriate isolation protocols will be implemented. If you are experiencing any symptoms such as a fever, cough, or shortness of breath, you should contact your doctor and our Claridge Court Director of Nursing immediately.
Again, we realize that this is a difficult situation, and we have protocols in place to help control the spread of the virus and to protect our residents and team members. We ask for your continued support and adherence to these important protocols. We thank you for your understanding during this challenging time. We will continue to endeavor to protect our residents and team members during this pandemic.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Claridge Court management team.

Kansas Department of Health and Environment offers additional information about COVID-19 in our state.