A Thief River Care Center resident who tested positive for COVID-19 has since died.

On its Facebook page, TRCC reported that the resident passed away Sunday, July 19 at Sanford Hospital. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time,” TRCC wrote on its Facebook page.

According to TRCC, all residents and staff were tested after the resident’s initial diagnosis Friday, July 10. One staff member tested positive at that time. Fifty-six residents tested negative.

A second staff member tested positive for COVID-19 on Sunday, July 19. Both staff members are self-quarantining at home. It is unclear whether the staff members are among the cases in Pennington County.

TRCC held its second round of COVID-19 testing for residents and staff on Monday, July 20. “We know that keeping you informed is a key responsibility for our team. Each week, we will provide you with an update on the number of residents and staff who have been impacted and the steps we’re taking to stop this virus,” TRCC wrote.

When it initially disclosed the resident’s diagnosis, TRCC noted that the resident who tested positive for COVID-19 had already been transferred to the TRCC segregated unit, where the resident received care.

TRCC further noted, “As a reminder, staff that work in our segregated unit will not care for residents outside of the unit or interact with any employees that are providing direct care to residents outside of the unit. All staff in the segregated unit are equipped with N95 masks, face shields, gowns, and foot covers. Staff enter and exit the segregated unit from a separate door to prevent exposure to the rest of our care center, residents and employees.

“Due to the COVID-19 situation in our care center, we will not be able to allow patio visits or open-widow visits at this time. We are continuing to schedule closed window visits with residents. Please contact our care center to schedule your visit. We also encourage alternative means of communicating with residents such as phone calls, Facebook, Skype, etc. We have obtained additional equipment to meet the demands of these virtual visits and staff are able to assist residents as needed.

“We appreciate all the support, prayers, and offers of help that we’ve received.”