Caressant Care staff recognized for year without outbreak

ARTHUR – Efforts of staff at Arthur’s Caressant Care long-term care home to keep residents safe and healthy are paying off.

The home recently announced that as a result of the hard work and vigilance of staff, it had logged a full year without an outbreak.

“This accomplishment is a direct result of the team’s consistent efforts, attention to detail and teamwork in ensuring proper protocols were followed,” stated an email from Caressant Care Arthur.

The email went on to say that shortly after hitting the 12-month mark, the home did experience a short outbreak, but it lasted only eight days.

“This short duration speaks volumes about our team’s ability to quickly identify, isolate, and manage the situation effectively, minimizing any potential spread and ensuring the health and safety of both residents and staff,” the email stated.

According to definitions posted on Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health’s website, an outbreak can be as few as two cases of an illness.

The health unit’s Feb. 7 outbreak bulletin listed 13 facilities currently in outbreak, and one with an outbreak declared over on Feb. 7. The outbreaks include respiratory, COVID-19 and enteric outbreaks.

Caressant Care Arthur rewarded its team for its infection control efforts by hosting a staff-appreciation event on Feb. 3.

“The event was designed to be both casual and heartfelt, providing a moment of relaxation and celebration,” the email stated.

Staff members were provided with a spread of sandwiches from Subway and Pita Pit, as well as an array of sweet treats as a token of appreciation.

“Their dedication to infection control and their unwavering commitment to providing exceptional care ensures that our residents thrive, even in the face of ongoing challenges,” the email said of Caressant Care staff.

“We look forward to many more years of working together to uphold these standards and celebrate the success of our team.”