Berks County nursing home mass-COVID testing shows more than 60 residents have the virus: officials
Retesting for a second round is under review, and may occur Monday for staff who did not previously test positive.
By Becky Metrick/PennLive
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After the National Guard was called in to assist with testing the entire population at Berks Heim Nursing and Rehabilitation, results have shown more asymptomatic cases in the home than previously diagnosed cases.
Between Thursday and Saturday, 484 staff were tested, and all residents were tested, except 10 who refused testing and 31 residents who had previously been diagnosed, according to a statement from Berks County Commissioner Christian Leinbach.
266 test results from residents were received, showing 34 residents were asymptomatic but positive, according to the statement.
Of the staff members tested, 403 results have been received. 10 staff members tested positive, according to the statement. 30 staff members were not tested due vacation or other leave of absence time.
Retesting for a second round is under review, and may occur next Monday for staff who did not previously test positive, according to the statement.
Along with the testing numbers, the county shared a favorable review the home recieved from representatives of the Hospital & Healthcare Association of Pennsylvania, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Guard. The facility was evaluated on May 21.
“Their comments to Heim management indicated that the Berks Heim is doing a very good job,” the county said. A formal report is expected and will be released.
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