Cary, NC – COVID-19-related deaths and positive cases are declining in nursing homes across the country, as more residents and employees are vaccinated. However, some assisted living facilities are still dealing with outbreaks.
There are currently three cases of COVID-19 active on Woodland Terrace, an assisted living facility in Cary.
“You’re always worried about it,” said Kathleen Brewer, whose husband lives in a ward on Rocky Mount.
Residents and staff members within nursing home facilities were vaccinated as part of Group 1 in the implementation of the North Carolina COVID-19 vaccine. But Brewer said that hearing about outbreaks at other facilities, even with the COVID-19 vaccines, was worrying for her.
“Wash your hands and wear a mask,” she said. “I think it is crucial. They will keep this up for a while.”
“To date, we have run two vaccine clinics for our residents and associates, with a third scheduled for March 16, with more than 90% of our residents fully vaccinated,” a Woodland Terrace spokesman said in a statement.
Brewer said her husband received his first dose, and she said she hoped it would keep him safe on the premises.
“You are just taking a risk with this vaccine. I hope they don’t get it,” she added.
Last Thursday, state health officials said facilities without recent outbreaks could resume internal visitation. Not everyone in there is being vaccinated, which is why visitors are encouraged to follow safety protocols in high-risk environments.
A spokesman for Woodland Terrace is taking extra precautions to limit exposure to residents and associates and continues to test residents and employees frequently.