We were notified of a positive Independent Living resident today.  We are working through the contact tracing and will notify anyone who was a close contact with this individual.  There are no new positives in any other unit.  We are waiting for the results of our weekly testing in the Meadows.  We have 2 new staff positives in the last couple of days, but neither has had close contact with residents. 

The positive cases are rising at a substantial rate and the hospitals are starting to feel the pinch of too many admissions.  It is a time to be more cautious and manage your expectations accordingly.  We have seen positives that have had contact with others that have then tested positive.  There have been families that are all not feeling well and testing positive.  My recommendation is to be much more cautious with your interactions while this wave runs its course.  Discretion is a key quality right now and using mitigation techniques is a better idea.  Diligent, proper mask wearing is important.  Staying in tune with your own health is important.  Even a small symptom like a scratchy throat may be a sign of an infection.  Its better to be safe than run the risk of infecting a family member or a neighbor.  We are not changing any protocols at this point, but again, I would ask for cautious judgement in your activities and behaviors.  We are again being tested in our resolve and moving into the 3rd calendar year with this as a constant specter.   As frustrating as this continues to be, I again ask for your best judgement.  Thank you all and stay safe.