COVID-19 continues to batter the country and threatens to overwhelm health care systems in many areas. The United States just experienced the worst day of the whole pandemic in terms of mortality, with 3,331 Covid-related deaths on December 16.
Most North Carolina counties served by Lutheran Services Carolinas are in the “red zone” as designated by the North Carolina Department of Health and Community Services, which indicates critical community spread. As a result of Covid being out of control in the areas where LSC serves, it is unsurprising that LSC communities continue to see significant increases in Covid-positive staff and residents.
The vaccine will bring much-needed relief to senior care communities. LSC is preparing to receive the Moderna Covid vaccine for all residents and staff of its skilled nursing and assisted living communities. The vaccine will likely be arriving the week between Christmas and New Year’s.
“We will be encouraging everyone inside and outside LSC to take the vaccine as soon as it is offered,” said LSC President Ted Goins. “There is nothing more important right now than getting immunized.”
Goins added, “Please let me share from the Book of Isaiah: ‘…but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not be faint.”
“Help is on the way with the arrival of the vaccine,” Goins said. “Weary residents and exhausted caregiver/heroes across LSC and across the country will begin to see relief starting in January. Hang in there!”
