COVID-19 outbreak at Pinecrest improving, restrictions to end soon

Kenora’s Pinecrest remains under COVID-19 outbreak measures, but staff say the situation is improving.

The COVID-19 outbreak in Unit 1 was declared on August 22 after one resident was found to have COVID-19 symptoms and later tested positive, and two additional asymptomatic positives were found after additional testing throughout the unit.

Now, Michelle Spencer, Assistant Administrator and Human Resources Manager with Kenora District Home for the Aged, says no new positive cases of the virus have been found, and two residents remain in isolation – which ends on Sunday.

For remaining residents, Spencer says Pinecrest has returned to dining room meals and unit activities – and staff are hopeful the outbreak will be declared over by Monday – as long as no additional positives are found.

In the meantime, visiting guidelines for Unit 1 are as follows:

– One designated essential caregiver for positive residents,
– Two designated essential caregivers for the remaining Unit 1 residents,
– COVID-19 negative residents must wear a mask,
– No individuals under the age of 16 are permitted to visit Unit 1 during the outbreak,
– All day or overnight outings are restricted for COVID-19-positive residents,

Pinecrest reminds the public that you’re asked to not visit the home if you have any cold or flu-like symptoms, visiting guidelines haven’t changed for Units 2, 3 or 4, and staff stress the importance of wearing a mask while around their residents at all times.