All COVID-19 tests at Eastern Star come back negative

The results have come in on all the COVID-19 tests done on Eastern Star nursing home residents, Arlin Falck Assisted Living tenants, and all Eastern Star staff members.

The tests were conducted last Wednesday and Thursday using tests supplied by LabCorp, a private company referred to Eastern Star staff through the Iowa Department of Public Health.  The tests were administered by staff, with assistance from Winneshiek County Public Health.

Eastern Star Administrator Laurie Kreul says every one of those tests has come back negative.

The tests were given after two Eastern Star employees tested positive for COVID-19.  Both employees self-isolated and have since been released to return to work.

Says Kreul, "While this is exceptional news, we will continue to be vigilant in an attempt to keep everyone safe and the virus out while Iowa begins to open up."