Dear Residents and Families of Birch Bay Retirement Village,

Today I spoke with the Maine CDC epidemiologic investigator to determine if further testing and continued closure of the Safe Harbor neighborhood would be required.

After evaluation of the timing, circumstances of the staff members COVID-19 testing and the date of the shift worked in our Safe Harbor neighborhood, the investigator determined no further testing or restrictions are required. The Maine CDC has determined the staff member’s positive test is not a potential outbreak within the Birch Bay community.

Safe Harbor is now open for visitation.

I know the sudden closure to visitation on Safe Harbor was disappointing news for everyone; however, that rapid response is required, as we remain vigilant in protecting the health and wellbeing of our community during this challenging time.

Throughout the pandemic, Birch Bay has strived for transparency in everything we do. I appreciate the patience, flexibility, and support our families as well as the greater community have shown us all during this challenging time.

Once again, I would like to remind you it is more important now than ever before that our entire community continue to follow the guidance of the CDC. If you and your families are eligible for vaccination or a vaccine booster, we encourage you to get vaccinated. Please remember that even after you do get vaccinated, we all need to continue to protect ourselves and others by wearing a mask, social distancing and practicing good hand hygiene. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me.

Sincerely,

Peter Sullivan, MBA, RN-BC, CDP, LRCA

Executive Director, Birch Bay Retirement Village