Georgia’s first senior care coronavirus cases reported

ATLANTA — A metro Atlanta assisted living facility has three residents and an employee who have tested positive for the coronavirus — a sign of the acute risks that senior care facilities face as the virus spreads across Georgia.

The Retreat at Canton confirmed that three residents and an employee have “tested presumptively positive” for COVID-19, according to a release by the facility that has 90 beds.

“As of today, we have not received confirmation from the CDC on any of the cases. The CDC is likely overwhelmed with tests but has represented that it will try to return results within 72 hours of receipt.”

“All three resident are comfortable, self-isolated in their suites and remain asymptomatic at this time,” said a facility statement. “Our employee, who is also asymptomatic, is in self-isolation at their home.”

All employees who had direct contact with the three residents are under a 14-day isolation at home and are providing daily reports of their condition, according to the facility. Also family members of the three residents who may have been exposed are under a 14-day isolation.

People who were identified as having been exposed and experiencing symptoms are contacted directly by a Department of Public Health epidemiologist

Residents that are asymptomatic are under self-isolation in their rooms and meals are being served to residents using disposal cutlery, cups, paper plates and napkins.

Jesse Marinko, CEO stated, “Our focus will continue to be on our residents and our associates, and we will exhaust all measures to ensure their safety and well-being. We are grateful for the expertise and guidance from The Georgia Department of Health”. If anyone has any questions, please contact our home ofce in Roswell, Georgia.

Information from the Atlanta Journal-Constitution was used in this report

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