MANTENO – The Illinois Department of Public Health reports Wednesday a new outbreak of COVID-19 at the Manteno Veterans Home.
The latest outbreak information came after a resident died of the disease early Wednesday morning.
“Sadly, one veteran, already under hospice care and completely asymptomatic, passed away early this morning–only hours after his booster shot and results of a COVID positive result.” The Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs (IDVA) reported Wednesday in a statement.
At least six staff members and 16 residents have been confirmed positive with the virus. Those positive have been moved to isolated areas and are being monitored by IDVA personnel.
“Our top priority is the health and safety of our military veterans and the heroic staff who care for them. We take this very seriously. We are following recommendations from local health officials, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and the IDPH to safeguard everyone at the facility. This includes continuing daily health screenings of our veterans, routine COVID-19 testing of staff and residents, use of N-95 respirator masks with protective face shields, maintaining social-distancing practices, using gloves and gowns, and intensified cleaning and disinfection protocols. During an outbreak, residents are encouraged to stay in their rooms to minimize movement within the facility. IDPH staff was on site, only hours after the tests came back positive, working to ensure the full protection, testing, and care of anyone potentially exposed.” IVDA said Wednesday.
Visitors have been asked to reschedule any planned visitations at this time, but visitation will continued to be allowed at this time.
