May 7, 2021
Dear Health & Transition Services Families,
With better weather, people we support are getting outside more. Staff and designated family caregivers can take people supported for walks or bike rides on the grounds and into the neighbourhood. PPE must be worn at all times and no stops at malls or restaurants are permitted right now.
We’ll have more information shortly regarding booking outdoor visits.
Today’s COVID-19 case numbers and test positivity rate are concerning and demonstrate that we aren’t done with COVID-19 yet. This third wave feels like a step backwards, and I want to reassure all of you that our focus on the things we KNOW make a difference in this fight: PPE, distancing, hand hygiene, staying home when sick, and getting vaccinated. We have been diligently reviewing and practicing our contingency plans and are ready to respond to a positive case if needed.
If we can do our very best for the next 6-8 weeks, more Manitobans will be vaccinated and the future looks much brighter. This week, the province announced that every adult will be eligible by May 21, teenagers will be vaccinated by mid-June, and second doses for those who only have one shot will also begin in June.
Our team has reached out to the Vaccine Task Force to ensure any children we support over the age of 12 are included in our vaccine administration. More will be shared directly with families of eligible children when we receive more information.
Virtual activities continue to be well attended and more are scheduled for May and June.
Staff are doing all they can to keep your loved ones safe including wearing PPE, getting the vaccine, and getting tested at our asymptomatic clinic.
Thank you for your continued support.
Sarah Mankelow
Director, Health & Transition Services