Good Shepherd Home employee tests positive for COVID-19, mass testing for staff planned

FOSTORIA, Ohio — A Fostoria senior living facility announced Friday that one of its employees has tested positive for COVID-19.

Chris Widman, executive director of Good Shepherd Home, says his team learned of the positive test Friday.

Widman says he has contacted the Seneca County Health Commissioner and Good Shepherd will “certainly work diligently to minimize the spread of infection.”

The individual who tested positive last worked at Good Shepherd Home on July 6, 2020.

“Good Shepherd Home will continue our infection control protocols and as a further precaution we will be suspending our visitations until further notice,” Widman wrote in a letter to Good Shepherd residents and family members.

The Ohio National Guard will be conducting COVID-19 testing for all staff at Good Shepherd on Monday, July 27, according to Widman.

Although visitation for the assisted living facility may resume before July 27, the nursing home visitation will not begin until the test results are received, Widman said.

“Although the news of a positive COVID-19 staff test report is discouraging we are encouraged and grateful for your continued prayers, support and understanding. The Good Shepherd Home staff of over 220 strong have remained committed to continuing their mission of service for our residents. Please be assured that the Good Shepherd Home team of caregivers will continue to make our residents their priority,” Widman wrote in the letter.