UPDATE: The positive COVID-19 test proved to be a false positive. See story update here.
 
MIDDLEBURY — A resident of Helen Porter Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center has tested positive for COVID-19, Porter Medical Center reported on Friday.
Porter officials said they notified residents, family members of residents and staff of the case, which was discovered as a result of a facility-wide Phase 1 testing initiative as prescribed by the Vermont Department of Health. The resident is asymptomatic at this time and is in quarantine, as are employees who came in contact with the resident.
Although many nursing homes and care facilities around the country have been had hit by COVID-19 cases, this is the first one at Helen Porter.
Helen Porter and all of Porter Medical Center have instituted policies to stop the spread of COVID-19, including restricting visitors, canceling communal dining, and asking staff to wear masks and gowns as appropriate.
“Resident and staff safety is our top priority,” said Helen Porter administrator Mary Jane Nottonson. “We are continuing to work hard to prevent the spread of the virus, including staying in very close communication with local and state health officials to ensure we are taking all the appropriate steps.”
Porter officials said they couldn’t share any additional information about this resident to protect their privacy, but they said they would continue to update the community with any information that they can appropriately share.
Visitors are not permitted at Helen Porter at this time, with very limited exceptions. Family members are encouraged to connect with their loved ones through video chat, calling, texting, or other social media formats.
Helen Porter is a component of Porter Medical Center, which also includes Porter Hospital and a number of affiliated physicians’ practices. Porter Medical Center is a member of the University of Vermont Medical Center Health Network.