At The Villages Health, we care for almost 60,000 patients. As of December 4, we know of 356 cases with 75 hospitalizations and eight deaths. There are likely cases among our patients we have not heard about. We likely heard about nearly all our patients who were hospitalized or died. Our employees are also not immune. As of December 7, we have tested 73 team members with 22 being positive and 51 negative. All 22 team members are back at work having completed the necessary quarantine period. Most health care workers, whether at hospitals, nursing homes or our care centers have their exposures outside of work.
TVH has been running rapid testing with support from the State of Florida using Abbott Labs Binax tests supplied by the federal government. To date, TVH is approaching 4,000 tests run and overall positive rate is over 7%. Peak day testing has been about 13%. Another 5,000 test kits were recently received so testing will continue. There is no cost for testing, and you do not have to be a TVH patient to be tested. Testing is being offered at our Brownwood and Creekside Care Centers by online appointment. The website is
The Villages Health Rapid COVID-19 Screening - Registration with availability on first come, first served basis.
As Florida moved into Phase 3 in September, there have been more people out and about with a higher likelihood of exposure. While there is scattered evidence of “pandemic fatigue,” maintaining vigilance is important. As cases have surged in multiple places around the state, country and world, locally case increases have also occurred. In many parts of the country, the increased risk of COVID infection led to restrictions on elective procedures being re-enacted; yet locally, that directive has not been given.
Communities where large populations of seniors live, are advised to take proactive steps to reduce the risk of disease transmission. The Villages® Community is the nation’s largest 55 and older active living community.
Seniors who have serious medical conditions, such as heart or lung disease, diabetes, or conditions reflective of weakened immunity, are at even higher risk. These individuals can make decisions that reduce their risk of getting COVID-19. They should consider postponing participation in large scale social events, particularly those events held indoors with multiple close contacts. Everyone can help reduce the risk of community spread until the magnitude and severity of this infection is more widely known and understood.
As we move into Phase 3 of reopening, the best way to continue progressing back to normal is maintain practices that reduce the likelihood of spread.
Everyone can help by taking the following actions:
People should not attend in-person events if they are sick
Social distancing of at least six feet is important
Consistent mask wearing is advised
Frequent handwashing, avoid shaking hands and minimize hand-to-face contact
Cover your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing, then wash your hands
