ST. CROIX — The Department of Human Services has confirmed to the Consortium that an employee of the Head Start facility in Richmond has tested positive for the coronavirus, after an internal D.H.S. memo surfaced on WhatsApp.
"An internal memo that was sent out on Tuesday, August 11, 2020 to our staff at our Anna’s Hope facility was leaked. While I do not think it is right for an internal memo to be leaked, the content is factual," said D.H.S. Commissioner Kimberly Causey-Gomez. "Communicating to our staff in a way that aims to address their concerns first while respecting their privacy is my responsibility. The coronavirus has been with us for months and will continue to impact us all. The Department of Human Services remains committed to Department of Health and CDC best practices with our staff and clients."
In light of the confirmed case at the Richmond Head Start, D.H.S. said it was taking the following precautionary measures:
- The screening protocol, including a screening survey and/or temperature checks for ALL persons attempting to enter all DHS facilities had already been implemented at some facilities and will now be will be applied at all facilities.
- Covid-19 testing is being arranged for units providing direct service to clients on a daily basis and is being encouraged for all employees.
- Professional cleaning/sanitization is being arranged for all affected units to take place as soon as possible.
- Divisional meetings between Administrators and staff will be ongoing to address concerns and reiterate facility protocol and safety precautions outlined by the CDC and the Department of Health.
D.H.S. on Wednesday evening confirmed that 10 of 17 Queen Louise Home for the Aged residents had tested positive for the virus, while 6 of 25 staff members were also confirmed to be Covid-19 positive.
"Department of Human Services leadership and staff, including the Queen Louise physician, Department of Health and CDC physicians and staff and the Schneider Regional Medical Center are working collaboratively to address the unfolding reality of the coronavirus and its spread into the facility," D.H.S. said. "The residents who tested negative will be relocated to non-congregate sheltering to try to maintain their negative status and good health. Re-testing will occur in accordance with guidance from the lead Epidemiologist with Department of Health."
According to the release, all residents who tested positive are so far asymptomatic or displaying only mild symptoms. "All are being closely monitored and treated by the multi-disciplinary team. None of the residents have required hospitalization," D.H.S. said.
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