GRANTSVILLE — A local health care executive has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus.
Stephen Whited, CEO of Minnie Hamilton Health System, is experiencing no symptoms, and will follow all protocols before returning to work. Earlier this month, Whited reported he was in contact with a positive COVID-19 case after attending a small family wedding ceremony.
Whited provided an update on the Minnie Hamilton Facebook page last week.
In his previous update, he said two family members tested positive but both of them have been released from quarantine and did not experience symptoms.
As per the policy of the hospital, Whited was tested again to ensure he had not contacted the virus.
“This was the first step of a two-step process we require for our employees when returning from a required quarantine. Both tests would need to return negative results before a return to work is granted,” Whited said.
His initial test resulted in a positive result.
“My quarantine is still in effect and I will continue to adhere to it until that time I receive two consecutive negative results from future screenings,” he said.
He is in close contact with the health department and is working to make sure all patients and employees of the hospital are safe.
“Although not required, I choose to communicate these developments in my experience with the coronavirus as a tool to help inform the patients of Minnie Hamilton Health System to better understand the processes and guidelines that we adhered to ensuring your safety and ours,” Whited said.
