Nine residents, 12 staff members reported to have COVID at Illinois Veterans Home in Quincy

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — The Illinois Veterans Homes at LaSalle, Manteno and Quincy are experiencing an increase in COVID-19 cases among its veterans and staff, and the majority of cases have presented mild symptoms. 

A Tuesday press release said that of Aug. 27, a combined 36 people in three homes had tested positive with COVID-19.

• LaSalle: three residents and nine staff
• Manteno: two residents and one staff
• Quincy: nine residents and 12 staff 

“Illinois’ five Veterans’ Homes have consistently monitored its staff and residents for symptoms of COVID-19 and all infectious diseases,” Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs Director Terry Prince said in a press release. “There is a nationwide increase in COVID-19 cases, and IDVA’s robust testing and infection control efforts have minimized the spread and ensured the safety of the veterans in our care and our staff.”

“IDPH is happy to support IDVA in their efforts to respond to and contain disease outbreaks in Illinois veterans’ homes,” Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Sameer Vohra said. “IDPH Regional Infection Control Coordinators have been in close communication with IDVA staff at these affected homes, providing assistance and support throughout the last week. We are committed to using our public health expertise and resources to protect the veterans in IDVA homes and the staff who care for them.”

All homes continue to follow Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Illinois Department of Public Health infection control guidelines for long-term care facilities. The IDVA is encouraging residents to stay in their rooms to minimize movement, social distancing and masking in direct care areas. Veterans home staff have intensified cleaning and disinfection protocols.