February 2021

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River Bend has received the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Vaccine

On Jan 26th, 2021, our residents and staff received their second vaccination shot for the virus, and a few will have received their first. We do not have the answer to any resident who was unable to
receive the vaccine at our clinics, but I’m sure there will be a way to receive it eventually. Iowa is moving into the 65 and older group getting their first shot starting in February. I am happy to say there have been very few side effects to the vaccine and all reported were minor .
A reminder, If you have had COVID-19, there is no guarantee that you won’t get it again, or when. We are unsure if you are covered by enough antibodies from contracting COVID-19, or how long you would be covered, therefore everyone is considered to be a carrier of the disease and should protect themselves and others by receiving the vaccine.
We have not been given any updated information on changes to the visitation policy. Until such time that we are able to do in person visits, we encourage the use of the visitation areas at each facility.
A quick call to the facility to reserve your day and time is all we ask. If there is a special request for accommodations, please call the facility to discuss with the manager. 
We ask that you continue to protect yourself by washing your hands or using hand sanitizer often, social distance at least 6ft. from others including at work and avoid crowds until such time we have enough people immunized with the vaccine to control its spread. Protect others by staying home if you are not feeling well, wear a mask when out in the public, cover your cough or sneeze, and stay away from crowds. Use telehealth if possible.

Vicki Nemmers
Regional Manager