COVID-19 UPDATE | DECEMBER 4, 2020

Friends and Family of Santa Marta,

As we are now firmly entrenched in the holiday season, I am once again deeply encouraged by the resilience shown by our Santa Marta family. As we approach the end of an unprecedented year, the challenges and turmoil of this pandemic have done little to damper our collective resolve and festive spirit.

We’re grateful to report we continue to have no positive COVID cases among healthcare residents. Following approximately 400 tests this week, we did identify four additional positive cases among team members – a CNA, a nurse, a housekeeper and a member of our transportation team. Thankfully, we’ve determined there isn’t an exposure concern for residents as a result of these cases.

Currently, we have 12 positive cases among Santa Marta employees. All impacted individuals are self-isolated at their homes and will be eligible to return to work once they receive two consecutive negative tests.

Following a temporary hiatus after Thanksgiving, we will once again welcome outdoor visits next week for residents in health services. Interested participants can call us Monday, Dec. 7, to schedule visits beginning Tuesday, Dec. 8. Additional guidelines will be shared with residents and appropriate family members in the next day or two.

Additionally, we anticipate indoor visits for independent living will resume Tuesday, Dec. 8. We also plan to reopen the dining room and some activities on Friday, Dec. 11. Please note this will largely depend on positive cases at Santa Marta, and if Johnson County’s positivity rate remains above 10%.

As you’ve undoubtedly seen in the media recently, the question on everyone’s mind is the vaccine and its timeline for distribution. Truth be told, we don’t have much information yet. Our team is prepared, and we’ve partnered with local pharmacies to ensure a timely distribution once we’re given the green light.

We know from guidance released by the CDC that healthcare workers and long-term care residents will receive priority for initial doses. That said, we continue to coordinate with the State as to exactly what that means and how the vaccine be distributed to communities like ours. I know we’ve preached patience far too often these last nine months, but we hope to have firmer details to share in future updates this month.

In the meantime, please continue to take all necessary precautions to keep you and your loved ones safe. As always, I and the rest of the Santa Marta leadership team are available to answer any questions you may have at updates@www.santamartaretirement.com.

Thank you and God bless,

Chet Surmaczewicz

Executive Director