Ferris doctor tested positive for COVID-19

FERRIS – On April 9, the City of Ferris was made aware of a healthcare provider, John Arkusinski, D.O., tested positive for COVID-19 at the Ferris Family Medicine at 207 W. 5th St.

City Manager Brooks Williams stated in a news release, “I have spoken directly with Ferris Family Medicine and the local health authority, Dr. Leigh Nordstrom, around a case of COVID-19 that was investigated by the Texas Department of State Health Services at Ferris Family Medicine.

“In this situation, Ferris Family Medicine and the City of Ferris are committed to demonstrating a transparent and proactive response.”

Williams stated, “On March 23, 2020, a healthcare provider, John Arkusinski, D.O., at Ferris Family Medicine, saw a patient (non-Ferris resident) for flu-like symptoms.

“Ferris Family Medicine has informed us that at that time any and all patients experiencing flu-like symptoms were masked.

“All patients were asked to wait in their vehicles until they could be seen. On March 31, 2020 the patient notified Ferris Family Medicine they had tested positive for COVID-19.

On that same date, Ferris Family Medicine contacted the CDC and the Public Health Department and have followed all instructions.

At that time, the staff of Ferris Family Medicine were tested for COVID-19 and Ferris Family Medicine began aggressive sanitation and decontamination protocols.

Ferris Family Medicine received laboratory results on April 2 that the healthcare provider, John Arkusinski, D.O., who provided care to the positive patient, had tested positive for COVID-19.

All other staff tested negative for the virus. The healthcare provider, John Arkusinksi, D.O., was immediately sent home for the recommended 14-day self-quarantine.

“Dr. Arkusinksi experienced no symptoms while in the office and is doing well.

“His face-to-face contact with the patient, who tested positive, is believed to be the point of transmission.

“All other staff members have tested negative.”

All patients that were seen by the provider, during this period of time, have been notified by Ferris Family Medicine and given information and recommendation on how to proceed.

Ferris Family Medicine recommends that all individuals adhere to the CDC guidelines.