124 residents, 39 staff members of Eastbrook Center tested for COVID-19

On Monday morning, a combined team from the Kanawha-Charleston Health Department, the West Virginia National Guard, Kanawha County Emergency Ambulance Authority and Charleston Area Medical Center went to the Eastbrook Center at 3819 Chesterfield Avenue in Charleston and tested 124 residents and 39 staff members for COVID-19.  The City of Charleston also provided assistance during the testing process. 

The testing came after KCHD received notification late Sunday night that one resident had tested positive for the virus.

Staff was tested using rapid testing and nasal swabs. Residents were tested using only nasal swabs. During today’s testing, utilizing rapid tests, one staff member was found to be positive.

“Today we were able to determine in minutes another positive case,” said Dr. Sherri Young, KCHD health officer and executive director. “When I planned weeks ago to purchase rapid tests and develop protocol for the usage of those tests, we knew that nursing homes would be potential sites for outbreaks.  Rapid tests would help identify positive cases in a quick manner to help determine the need for self-isolation. I am using the tests in the best way to protect our first responders and healthcare professionals.  Here I was able to order an immediate quarantine which is the only way to stop a community spread in a nursing home setting.”

All nasal swab tests collected will go to CAMC’s lab for results. Results for tests are expected within 24 to 48 hours. The facility is taking all necessary precautions to prevent the further spread of the virus.