The Esquiline Wellness Blog

UPDATED September 16, 2020

We were recently informed that a staff member tested positive for COVID-19. While the staff member adhered to safety protocols, we understood there was a risk of exposure among staff and residents that the individual came into contact with in the course of their duties.

Our Team's Rapid Response

After conducting a series of tests and tracing, we rapidly located and isolated potential cases.  Yesterday afternoon we received final test results indicating that several residents and additional staff members have tested positive for the virus. Residents were placed in isolation and affected staff have been instructed to shelter at home.  Presently, most of those testing positive are not exhibiting  symptoms or are experiencing only minimal symptoms. 

We have notified the Illinois Department of Health and the St. Clair County Health Department, and will continue to follow their guidance in our efforts to contain the virus. They have consulted with our clinical team, and have provided invaluable direction on the best methods to use in our environment.  Please be assured that the health and safety of our residents is our highest priority and that we will continue to work proactively to contain the virus.

Visitation Suspended as Assessment Continues

The additional stress the quarantine has placed on our residents and staff is significant. We are extremely grateful, in particular, to our tireless staff, which continues to adhere to safety protocols to ensure a clean and safe environment for all who live and work here. 

If you are so inclined, a note of appreciation and support would mean a lot to our heroes! Their openness, transparency, and adherence to safety procedures allowed us to react quickly to this incident.

Presently we are suspending all visits to Dammert Care Center and St. Francis Assisted Living until we obtain a complete assessment of the situation with additional testing.

What You Can Do

As always, we ask that our residents, staff and families do all that they can to support the safety of our community by following these recommendations, which are vital to mitigating the spread of the virus: 

• Wear a mask in all social settings
• Practice social distancing/stay home if possible
• Wash hands for 20 seconds with soap and water
• Self-isolate if showing symptoms of, or having known exposure to, COVID-19
• Seek testing if you believe you may be infected

Updates can also be heard on our COVID-19 hotline at 618.394.6261.  

Thank you again for your continued patience and prayers. 

Visitor Policy Updates Effective September 16, 2020

The Dammert Care Center and St. Francis Assisted Living is closed to all visitors at this time.  We look forward to being able to lift these restrictions when it is safe to do so.

The global pandemic has made safety an even greater factor in evaluating senior living communities. As you begin your search for a skilled nursing care center or nursing home for yourself or a loved one, here are some important safety guidelines and questions you should ask during your search.

Here at The Esquiline, we often encounter surprise from guests and potential residents who learn that we are located on the grounds of the Our Lady of the Snows Shrine. Many visitors come to the Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows regularly and don’t realize just how many gardens, sites, event spaces, and yes - even a senior community! - are located here.

When a loved one faces physical or mental challenges as they age, it can be difficult to determine the best care plan. You want to seek out a place that treats your parent like family, not a patient.