LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — Recently the Hope Center had a mini outbreak of coronavirus cases.
“We had a spike of positives during Christmas, but most of those clients have been cleared, and the staff. So they’re back at work and out of quarantine ... I think we have three people who are still isolated,” said Janice James from the Hope Center.
James said a spike once the weather changed was not unexpected. Strict protocols have been in place here since March when the virus first reached Kentucky.
“We’re a congregate living environment,” James said. “Staff go in and out, but most clients stay on-site unless they have a medical appointment,” James said of one of the many guidelines in place.
Testing is conducted regularly, and the next step will be mass vaccinations, once the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department gives the shelter the green light.
“They’re working with us, and trying to follow protocols to prioritize. But once they’re ready, we’re ready,” James said, before adding that vaccinations can be given at the shelter once an allotment is delivered.
Until then, the warming center, which isn’t attached to the building will be available for those who want to come and go, but others will have to remain in the building unless leaving for a medical visit that can’t be done on-site.
“We’re close to the health department, and we communicate and follow their recommendations,” James said, before adding, “so we’re back to normal, almost!”
