Virus confirmed after stop at nursing home

BIG STONE GAP — A third-party contracted therapist who had been inside the Heritage Hall nursing home has tested positive for COVID-19.

According to Heritage Hall public relations specialist Jennifer Eddy, the individual was at the facility March 19 and had their temperature taken upon entering and leaving the building. “They didn’t show any signs of illness at that time,” said Eddy.

The therapist was not a staff member and had limited access to the facility.

Eddy explained that the person tested positive for the virus on Monday, March 23. That same day, Heritage Hall alerted residents and family members of the situation and have been monitoring residents and employees for symptoms since then. Eddy confirmed that as of Wednesday afternoon, no resident or staff at the facility has shown any symptoms of COVID-19.

According to Eddy, all personnel have their temperature checked upon entering and exiting the building. This protocol has been in place since March 14. Eddy also stated that visitors were prohibited a few days before implementing the temperature testing.

Eddy stated that all American Healthcare facilities, including Heritage Hall in Big Stone Gap, have been following proper protocol and coordinating with state and local health officials to protect residents and employees.

The letter sent to residents and family members states that the facility has “implemented additional temperature checks and safety protocols above and beyond health department requirements.”

No further details have been released on the therapist or where the person lives.