The holidays are behind us and a new year and new hope is in front of us with statewide delivery of the first round of COVID-19 vaccinations for front-line medical and emergency personnel as well as nursing home staff and residents. CEO of Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC), Linn Block, says they have not yet seen a spike in cases from the holidays.
Block adds they are fortunate to have access to information that helps with strategic management of COVID cases.
The first vaccinations for staff came through the Iowa Department of Public Health and Carroll County Public Health the week of Dec. 21. As they continue those this week, Block says they have expanded to serve others on the front line.
Those who received that first dose will be vaccinated again after 28 days. Block says they have not received any specifics on when vaccinations will begin for the general public, but they have identified those at highest risk. This hospital is unique as they operate an in-house substance abuse recovery center. Even though they had to shutter the Recovery Center at MRHC briefly at the onset of the pandemic, they were able to implement safety and testing protocols that allowed them to reopen relatively quickly.
One healthcare concern going into the winter months was the added risk of influenza. Block says the providers have not treated any patients with a combination of the flu and COVID and they are also seeing a positive trend as far as the flu is concerned.
MRHC is reporting an increase in the number of flu vaccinations given so far this season. Block believes many have taken all precautions available to them to prevent any form of illness this year. MRHC still has flu vaccine available and she urges anyone who has not yet gotten their shot to contact them to set up a time to do so. When it comes to COVID-19 and testing, they are directing those who believe they have been exposed to the coronavirus or must be tested for travel status or other requirements to the Test Iowa sites. For those who are exhibiting symptoms, they are setting up appointments with providers for testing and treatment. They are also encouraging everyone to maintain their routine healthcare and wellness appointments. Block adds that MRHC has been able to maintain an ample supply of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to allow their providers to continue administering all levels of care offered at their campus.
