Saskatoon retirement home restricts access after staffer tests positive for COVID-19

A Saskatoon retirement complex is restricting access after a staff member tested positive for COVID-19.

There are 155 suites at the Luther Riverside Terrace on Saskatchewan Crescent West. It's described on the LutherCare Communities website as an independent living community.

LutherCare operates a range of properties that offer long-term nursing care, community day programs, seniors' housing, home support, intermediate care homes, group living homes and subsidized family housing.

On Monday, a sign posted to the main door at Riverside Terrace said that visitations have been temporarily suspended.

"One staff member of Luther Riverside Terrace independent living community has tested positive for COVID-19," housing vice-president Kelly Peevers said in an email.

"Management of LutherCare Communities is working closely with Public Health officials to complete contact tracing and ensure appropriate measures are put in place. All residents, staff and families have been notified and only visits deemed essential are allowed at this time."

Peevers would not say where in the building the staff member worked, but he said the person did not come into contact with any residents.

The staff member worked exclusively at Riverside Terrace, he added.

LutherCare learned of the positive test on Friday.

Peevers did not know how long the restrictions would be in place.