December 28, 2022
Dear Families, Friends and Visitors,
Thompson House is currently working with the Vermont Department of Health to investigate an outbreak of influenza (flu) and to put control measures in place. We have eight cases of influenza as of this morning, 12/28/22. All undiagnosed residents will be re-tested today and we will update you of any new positive cases.
We have already initiated appropriate steps to prevent further transmission and get the outbreak under control. Our Medical Director, Dr. Dickey, and our associated/credentialed practitioners are aware of the situation and are working closely with the staff and the state to administer the appropriate treatment, or prophylaxis (preventative treatment), if appropriate.
Influenza-specific staff education has been provided and Personal Protective Equipment use has been implemented. These strengthened infection control measures, coupled with strict hand hygiene, can/may reduce the number of new infections.
Communal dining and communal activities are on hold until further notice. Visits are permitted but should be limited, whenever possible, to vaccinated adults; children are particularly vulnerable to the influenza virus and visits, while permissible, are strongly discouraged (“Young children and children with certain underlying health conditions are at increased risk for a hospital stay or severe or complicated influenza infection.” – Johns Hopkins Medicine).
For any questions regarding this situation, please contact the facility at 802-254-4977 and ask for Judy Morton, Administrator, or Melissa Osborne, Director of Nursing.
Sincerely,
Judy Morton, Administrator
Melissa Osborne, RN, DNS
