Covid spike not here (yet?), but Sonoma Hospital says it’s ready
Though Sonoma County continues to see a dramatic increase in the spread of the Delta variant, Sonoma Valley Hospital has not seen a corresponding jump in patients. Chief Medical Officer Sabrina Kidd, MD, said the facility has has seen only a few cases in the past weeks but is prepared to respond to an increase if and when needed.
The Delta variant is a highly transmissible form of Covid that is driving a surge of cases among the unvaccinated.
In comments to the hospital board, Dr. Kidd stressed to that the hospital maintains strict safety protocols.
She reported that the hospital:
- Is well out in front of new mandates to vaccinate all health care workers, and 91 percent of staff members and 99 percent of medical staff are currently vaccinated, and this will increase in the next month. In the meantime, any unvaccinated staff will be masked and regularly tested;
- Has resumed Covid testing for all patients admitted or undergoing procedures, and it now has the technology in-house to quickly handle all Covid testing; and,
- Those visiting patients either must show that they are vaccinated or have had a negative Covid test within 72 hours of the visit, and all seeking care must wear a mask.
Officials said the hospital soon will be announcing additional and updated Covid-related policies reflecting continuing changes in the situation and incorporating all new government mandates.
Sonoma Valley Hospital encourages any residents of the Healthcare District to get vaccinated as quickly as possible.
