Two of Airdrie's retirement homes and senior living facilities have declared outbreaks of COVID-19 in recent weeks, according to data from the Alberta government.
"We can confirm that Luxstone Manor, owned by Leva Group, was declared in COVID-19 outbreak on Nov. 18," stated a Nov. 30 email from Laura Gallant, a communications representative of Extendicare, the care-provider for the Luxstone Manor.
According to Gallant, the company has received positive test results for 11 residents and one staff member at the Luxstone-based independent living facility.
"Our first priority, as always, is to maintain the health and safety of our residents and we know this is concerning news for our community," Gallant said. "We will continue to keep in close contact with residents, staff and families."
According to Gallant, one of the residents who contracted the virus at Luxstone Manor has died.
"We have been in touch with their family to offer our heartfelt condolences," she stated in her email.
As of Dec. 1, Airdrie had reported four deaths as a result of the virus.
Gallant added all Luxstone Manor residents are isolating in their rooms, where they are being provided all of their meals. Additional protocols are in place to prevent further spread among employees or residents.
"We have enhanced infection prevention and control protocols in place and additional PPE requirements for staff," she said. "We continue to follow the latest guidance from public health [authorities] to make sure our response is informed by the latest available evidence."
The other senior facility in Airdrie on the Alberta government's list of outbreaks is The Hamlets at Cedarwood Station. As of press time, the facility's staff could not be reached for comment.
While COVID-19 has a very low death rate overall, the severity of the virus is much more serious for the most vulnerable population segments, including seniors. According to alberta.ca, those most likely to experience severe outcomes due to the virus include people over the age of 70 who have underlying medical conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, chronic liver disease and obstructive pulmonary disease. As of Nov. 29, the average age of death from COVID-19 in Alberta was 82.
According to alberta.ca, 45 senior living facilities or long-term care facilities in the province were experiencing outbreaks of COVID-19 as of Nov. 30.
Scott Strasser, AirdrieToday.com
Follow me on Twitter @scottstrasser19
