All Mercy Living Center residents tested negative for COVID-19 today, following notification received by Adirondack Health yesterday that an employee at the skilled nursing facility had tested positive.
The routine employee test specimen was collected last Friday, Aug. 28, with an approximately 72-hour turnaround time, leading to the Monday notification. In keeping with state guidance, all Mercy Living Center employees are tested weekly.
The facility’s director of nursing, Elaine O’Brien, confirmed that all staff are compliant with mask and eye protection policies. Upon receiving notification of the positive test result, Adirondack Health immediately notified and tested all Mercy Living Center residents. Resident families, the New York State Department of Health and the Franklin County Public Health Department were also notified. Given the increased risks associated with COVID-19 in long-term care facilities, the resident tests were processed overnight at Adirondack Medical Center, utilizing rapid testing equipment.
In line with state guidance, all residents will once again be tested this Friday and Mercy employees will continue to be tested weekly. Anyone at the facility who develops any symptoms that could be associated with COVID-19 will be tested immediately.
To learn more, visit adirondackhealth.org/coronavirus. General questions about COVID-19 should be directed to the New York State Department of Health COVID-19 hotline: 888-364-3065.
