Alamance County Health Department has identified a second outbreak at the long-term care facility Brookdale in Burlington. Currently, two (2) cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed at the facility. The confirmed cases are among two (2) residents. NC DHHS defines an outbreak as two laboratory-confirmed cases in a period of 28 days within a congregate living or long-term care facility. Regular testing is required through the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) in order to provide surveillance as protective factor for both staff and residents.
“The Alamance County Health Department is working closely with Brookdale to mitigate the outbreak as quickly as possible with guidance and support,” stated Interim Health Director Alexandria Rimmer.
Alamance County Health Department identified its first confirmed case of COVID-19 on March 20. Since then, a total of 5906 cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in the community. Of those confirmed cases, 5408 have been released from isolation and 397 remain active and in isolation. Included in those active cases, 27 individuals are receiving care at a hospital. Sadly, there have been 101 COVID-19 related deaths. COVID-related deaths include only patients who tested positive for the novel coronavirus, which causes the disease COVID-19, and who died without fully recovering from the disease.
The community is reminded to limit their social and group interactions and practice the 3Ws – Wear, Wait and Wash. These important steps can reduce a person’s risk and the risk to their family, friends and neighbors.