With the transition to spending more time inside than out, comes the added risk for the spread of viruses – whether that is the common cold, flu, or COVID-19. Be assured that we are continuing to take every precaution to ensure the health safety and wellbeing of our Residents against all viruses, with a heightened focus on COVID-19.
Because of the increased COVID-19 activity in the Province – and the presence of highly infectious variants – effective, Monday November 15, 2021, we (and all Manitoba Personal Care Homes) will be requiring family/friend visitors to show proof of being fully vaccinated prior to being allowed to proceed with entry to The Home and a scheduled visit.
If a family/friend is not fully vaccinated, they may continue to visit with their loved one BUT only in our visitation shelter (POD). We anticipate that this will require a collaborative effort in scheduling of visits with our Recreation staff as we have limited segregated visitation space inside The Home and, of course, only the one visitation shelter. When arranging a visit with your loved one, continue to email and please advise of your vaccination status (with proof required to be shown at the time of your visit) so that we may reserve the appropriate visitation space. We do not wish to cancel any visit upon a family member’s/friend’s arrival at The Home due to a miscommunication regarding vaccination status.
We continue to follow all familiar infection prevention and control protocols including:
- Screening of all staff and visitors before entry for symptoms of COVID-19; and
- Vigilant use of personal protective equipment, proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, etc.
As well, a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine has been given to our Residents (who were eligible to receive and for whom consent was provided). Our healthcare staff are also being encouraged to receive the booster with many already having had their third shot.
We understand the new practice of providing proof of being fully vaccinated may create frustration; however, none of us wish to ever experience a COVID-19 outbreak again. We are making every effort possible to maintain important family/friend socialization and recreational activities for our Residents while ensuring we protect them from COVID-19.
Click here to access a revised Family & Friend Visitation pamphlet.
Thank you for your understanding and anticipated cooperation.
Warm regards,
Sherry Heppner
Development Coordinator
The Convalescent Home of Winnipeg