Dear County of Elgin Homes family members and visitors:
We currently do not have known cases of the Coronavirus, COVID-19 in St. Thomas and/or Elgin County. The County of Elgin Homes are closely monitoring the situation and ensuring all recommended and required guidelines for residents, staff and community safety are in place.
The County of Elgin Homes, under the direction of the Chief Medical Officer of Health, is restricting access to all non-essential visitors to the home. Essential visitors are identified as those who have a resident who is dying or very ill. An on-site Manager or Registered Nursing staff will identify those residents who would qualify to receive visitors.
Visitors identified as essential and all staff will receive screening upon arrival at the home, staff will ask you about recent travel and symptoms, particularly respiratory symptoms and/or fever. If you do not pass the active screening, you will not be permitted entry to the home and it may be suggested that you follow up with public health or your health care practitioner.
We suggest the utilization of telephone and technology where possible. We appreciate your patience and encourage you and your family to continue to self-monitor and follow the guidelines outlined in the provided forms. We will continue to provide updates and information as it becomes available.
factsheet-covid-19-guide-isolation-caregivers
factsheet-covid-19-self-monitor
What is the best way to avoid getting the virus?
Washing your hands often and well, coughing and/or sneezing into your sleeve or a tissue and discarding the tissue in waste receptacle followed by hand washing or hand sanitizer. It is important that you stay home if you are unwell to prevent the spread of illness.
How often should I wash my hands?
You can help yourself and your loved ones stay healthy by washing your hands often, especially during these key times when you are likely to get and spread germs:
Before, during, and after preparing food
Before eating food
Before and after caring for someone at home who is sick with vomiting or diarrhea
Before and after treating a cut or wound
After using the toilet
After changing diapers or cleaning up a child who has used the toilet
After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
After touching an animal, animal feed, or animal waste
After handling pet food or pet treats
After touching garbage
Wash your hands thoroughly, for at least 20 seconds. Watch this video to see how to properly wash your hands.
Covid-19 Resources
COVID-19 Southwest Public Health
COVID-19 Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care
COVID-19 CDC
Please do not hesitate to contact the home, should you have any questions or require more information. Chief Medical Officer of Health
