May 21, 2021
Dear H&TS Families,
High case numbers continue to be announced each day in Manitoba. Our province is truly experiencing a third wave of COVID-19. I want to assure you that the staff in Health & Transition Services remain committed to your loved ones; they are showing up, wearing their PPE, and staying home when sick. They are following the fundamentals in their personal lives as well to ensure the people they serve stay as safe as possible. I am so proud of each and every single staff and leader on the H&TS team, and of the staff from outside our team that support us such as social work, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and beyond.
Because of this commitment, there have been no additional risks or positive cases related to the single positive case announced on May 8. Also, there is no change to current visitation guidelines with yesterday’s increased restrictions.
The current 5-day test positivity rate in Winnipeg is 16.1%. This means that there is a very high level of community based transmission, and many cases cannot be linked to a positive case. It is incredibly important to asses yourself for any risk factors before coming to visit at 440 River Road-whether you are visiting inside or outside. This includes any contact with someone who has any symptoms, attendance at a gathering in the last 2 weeks, being in a crowded place, etc. Please also wear your provided PPE at all times and practice excellent hand hygiene. I know everyone is tired, and many of you are missing important milestones in your loved ones’ lives along with making other sacrifices. We are inching ever closer to the end of this pandemic-stay strong!
If you haven’t already done so-get your vaccine! The vast majority of people being admitted to hospital with COVID-19 and who are experiencing severe outcomes are those who have not been vaccinated. Call 1-844-MAN-VACC (1-844-626-8222) to book your appointment or visit protectmb.ca.
Stay safe.
Sarah Mankelow
Director, Health & Transition Services