Holyoke Soldiers’ Home visits off after admin staffer tests positive

HOLYOKE — Outdoor visitation has been suspended at the Soldiers’ Home after routine weekly testing for COVID-19 revealed one administrative staffer who tested positive.

The state made the announcement earlier this week. In a statement to the media, Executive Office of Health and Human Services spokesperson Brooke Karanovich said that visits to veteran residents remain contingent on infection control and public health metrics.

“While this staffer does not provide direct patient care, the home immediately implemented its infection control protocols, which includes suspending visitation for two weeks,” Karanovich said.

Earlier this year, a massive coronavirus outbreak at the facility left at least 76 veteran residents dead at the facility.

“Staff who are not feeling well are instructed not to come to work and to contact their health care provider,” Karanovich wrote. “If staff show any signs of COVID symptoms, they are required to self-quarantine at home, per CDC guidance for health care workers.”

Barring any further positive tests, in-person visits are expected to resume on Sept. 19.