×

Wheeling Hospital Continuous Care Center Halts Visitation

Three employees at facility test positive for COVID-19

WHEELING — The Continuous Care Center at Wheeling Hospital suspended visitation to the facility after three employees recently tested positive for COVID-19.

The employees do not routinely provide direct patient care and did not work at the facility within 48 hours of their symptoms’ onset, hospital officials said.

The workers will quarantine at home in accordance with the state, local and federal health guidelines regarding safe return to work in a nursing home.

The outbreak criteria is defined as one or more COVID-19 positive tests for employees or residents.

The facility, in conjunction with the Ohio County Health Department, will test all employees and residents at least weekly until there are 14 consecutive days without positive COVID-19 test results.

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the CCC has screened all employees for symptoms of COVID-19 and they are required to wear a facemask during their work shift. Additionally, all facility residents are screened every shift for symptoms of COVID-19. No CCC residents have tested positive for COVID-19.

CCC Medical Director Dr. Michael Wayt praised the employees for reporting their symptoms promptly and prior to reporting to work.

“These individuals are to be applauded for not sweeping their symptoms under the rug, no matter if they only experience mild symptoms,” Wayt said. “Their actions can potentially save lives.”

Administrator Christy Tarr said all workers at the facility have diligently practiced infection prevention measures since the start of the pandemic.

“I’m extremely proud of the staffs’ unwavering dedication to helping the residents maintain a dignified balance between staying isolated from the virus and remaining socially active,” Tarr said.

Visitation to the center is suspended until there are 14 consecutive days free of COVID-19 positive test results and there is no significant community spread of the virus.

Newsletter

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *

Starting at $4.73/week.

Subscribe Today