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The Woodland assisted-living retirement neighborhood in Farmville sent out a release early Thursday evening stating that it is proactively limiting visitation to its campus as a precaution against the coronavirus and in accordance with Centers of Disease Control (CDC) and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) guidelines.

The decision comes after a Longwood University student tested presumptive positive Wednesday for the virus, also known as COVID-19.

“The health and safety of our residents and our community are our top priority,” Greg Cole, president and CEO of The Woodland said. “Our best possible outcome is preventing the spread of the virus to our campus.”

According to the release, The Woodland organized a Coronavirus Task Force in January composed of senior leadership and qualified health professionals from across the organization.

The team meets regularly  to review and implement actions that will guide the organization as it works to prevent the spread of the virus. 

The Woodland will continue to run limited activities in its common areas and will screen all outside vendors and contractors. 

The release states the organization is also taking measures such as suspending all outside events at its community center, including social and civic groups, through April, as well as its own 50th anniversary celebration scheduled for March 26. 

The organization is restricting visitors, including independent living residents, from the assisted living Jefferson Dining Room, including all seating areas. 

The facility is limiting deliveries to its designated loading areas and is requiring that all residents and employees report travel plans so they can be monitored upon their return to the region. 

“We recognize that this decision might be challenging for the friends and families of our residents,”Cole said. “We encourage families to keep in touch with loved ones through electronic means including phone calls, video calls, social media and emails.”

The Woodland has also set up a direct line that can be reached by dialing (434) 395-7013, which will be manned Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., to answer all visitation questions. 

Interested parties may also email CEO@thewoodlandinc.com with visitation-related questions. The organization will also share updates on its website and facebook page. 

Additional updates will be made at www.thewoodlandinc.com/covid19.