Terrace Lodge Staff Tests Positive for COVID-19

For Immediate Release

December 5, 2020

[Elgin County, Ontario] – The County of Elgin has been notified that one (1) staff member at Terrace Lodge Long-Term Care Home has tested positive for COVID-19. This staff member is now self-isolating at home.  At this time, there are no other reported cases of COVID-19 among staff or residents at Terrace Lodge. 

Terrace Lodge Long-Term Care Home is working closely with Southwestern Public Health on outbreak management and to identify who the staff member has been in contact with.  Residents, staff and community members who are determined to be at risk are being contacted to prevent further spread of illness in the Home or in the community.  We are endeavouring to contact all residents’ family members and our staff today.

Our medical team are closely monitoring the health of our residents.  Terrace Lodge Staff continue to take all necessary steps to decrease the risk of spread of the virus and remain dedicated to the health and safety of our residents.  As well, all staff and residents continue to be closely monitored and screened for symptoms of COVID-19.

Elgin County’s Long-Term Care Homes have, since the onset of the pandemic, taken steps to assess and improve preparedness for responding to coronavirus (COVID-19).  COVID-19 is a viral illness that spreads like the flu and is hard to contain, despite everyone’s best efforts.  “We know that COVID-19 is particularly serious in older and frail individuals.  We have put in place additional safeguards to lessen the potential for transfer of COVID-19”, said Michele Harris, Director of Homes and Seniors Services.   

To help control the spread of COVID-19, the Province has directed long-term care homes to declare an outbreak or suspect outbreak if a resident or staff member tests positive.  In addition to the many preventative health and safety measures that are already in place, additional visitor restrictions are in place and will be communicated to families. 

“We are doing everything we can to ensure we stop the spread of this virus within our Home”, says Warden Dave Mennill, “the suspect outbreak is limited to Terrace Lodge, which is not connected to the other two County-owned Long-Term Care Homes, Elgin Manor and Bobier Villa”.  “We are working very closely with Southwestern Public Health and all precautions are being taken to protect our residents and valued staff.” 

For media inquiries contact: Warden Dave Mennill | warden@elgin.ca | 519-200-0279