March 25: COVID-19 Update

On Tuesday, March 23rd, Gov. Ralph Northam (D–Va.) issued a statewide order to protect the health and safety of Virginians and reduce the spread of the novel coronavirus, or COVID-19. The Executive Order mandated schools close for the remainder of the school year, and closure for non-essential businesses, fitness centers, spas, salons, etc. Following the governor’s mandated guidance, The Glebe’s fitness center and pool will be closed until further notice. We do understand and support, however, ongoing health and wellness. As such, we encourage residents to get outside and walk around The Glebe’s campus. Please keep in mind, social distancing in the event both you and your neighbors are out walking.

Based on the latest figures from the World Health Organization (WHO), long-term care providers may continue to confront an uptick in positive cases of COVID-19. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also reported this week that about 150 nursing homes across the country have at least one resident with COVID-19. The CDC also reported a very large acceleration in cases in the U.S. Over a 24-hour time period earlier this week, WHO reported that 85% of new cases have been in the U.S. and Europe—with 40% of those being in the U.S.

Virginia has adopted a slogan—”Do your part, stay at home! Virginia’s health is in your hands!”—to educate its residents and help flatten the curve of the coronavirus. I would ask that each of us do the same.

We are in the midst of an unprecedented time in our country and state as we stand united in the battle against COVID-19. The Glebe’s leadership and staff are doing everything possible to educate our residents and families to heed the advice of our government officials.

We continue to ask everyone to “house in place” and not leave the campus. However, residents continue to leave for groceries, pharmacy, appointments, etc. Please remember, every time a resident leaves The Glebe and ventures into the greater community, resident’s health, as well as their neighbors’ health, is at risk.

Beginning Friday, March 26, staff will monitor and screen all traffic coming and going at The Glebe entrance. You will find a staff member manning a temporary booth and screening everyone, including staff, residents and visitors attempting to enter or exit the campus. This process will help eliminate the need to screen our residents at the main entrance of the community center.

The intent of the above-outlined changes is solely for the protection of our residents, their families and our team members. Our focus continues to be prevention and to build barriers against the spread of this virus. The Glebe’s leadership and staff very much appreciate your cooperation and understanding. If you have any questions and/or concerns, please reach out to a member of The Glebe’s management.  As additional information develops, we will review and revise protocols restrictions as soon as it is prudent to do so.