IAHD’s Latest Update to CoronaVirus COVID-19 April 5, 2020

April 5, 2020

We continue to stay vigilant in these next few weeks as we hear news everyday about the impending apex of the Coronavirus. The peak that Governor Cuomo references during his daily briefings can send chills down your spine in anticipation of what may come; like a scene in a horror movie. 

While we remain concerned, we have done much to plan for it and have prepared to the best of our ability: 

1. We continue to ensure that sanitizing remains a top priority 

2. As people test positive, they are moved into the day programs we have converted into isolation sites

3. We are doing our best to give as many staff as possible masks and we ensure that ALL staff working with anyone who is positive has adequate PPE to do their jobs 

4. We ensure staff do not become complacent and continue to make use of UNIVERSAL PRECAUTIONS a priority. We know this is THE best defense against the spread of infection.  

IAHD DSPs, Clinicians (especially nurses) Managers, Assistant Managers, Directors and Administrative staff have been working tirelessly to keep up with and adhere to the ever changing precautions reported by CDC and DOH.

To say they are doing a phenomenal job is an understatement as they have made personal sacrifices to remain committed to the people in our care and we are forever grateful and indebted to them. 

SOME EXCITING NEWS! 

Of the 10 people who tested positive for COVID-19 and have been hospitalized and discharged to the isolation site, 5 are slated to return home this weekend! This is exciting and somewhat concerning news as we are not sure how people will respond if exposed to the virus again. We are hopeful that they are now immune, but will continue to take precautions and monitor closely. 

I could never have imagined being thrown into a crisis of this magnitude during the first 9 months of my tenure as CEO at IAHD. I guess this could be considered “baptism by fire.” I know that we will get through this and come out stronger than ever thanks to the caring, competent and committed team that is IAHD. 

Omayra Andino 
CEO