There are 23 current cases of COVID-19 associated with a Wheelersburg nursing home. According to the State of Ohio’s official Coronavirus numbers, there are currently 22 active cases of COVID-19 associated with the Best Care Nursing and rehabilitation.
The Coronavirus Dashboard lists 12 cases among nursing home residents and 10 current cases among staff. Two staff members tested positive for COVID-19 last spring. However, the company’s owner, Diversicare reports that 13 patients have tested positive. The state’s numbers are only updated once a week, so it’s likely the new case came in after they were posted.
13 COVID-19 Positive Residents
In a statement, the parent company of Best Care said, “We have been in touch with the Ohio Department of Health, as well as officials at the CDC. We are working closely with public health officials to address the situation and are grateful for their assistance. Best Care is currently caring for 13 COVID-19 positive residents. We have informed residents and designated representatives who are committed to continue to provide updates on a regular basis.
Our Center implemented precautionary and preparedness measures early– all in accordance with CMS and CDC guidelines- including strict limitations on visitation. Limits on visitation will continue, per guidance from the CDC, and we are working hard to make sure residents can still connect with their loved ones by phone, text, or video chat.
We are doing everything we can to ensure we stop the spread of this within our center and our community. Our infection control procedures are in compliance with the CDC and Ohio Dept. of Health guidance. Our nursing staff is educated and understands the healthcare protocols for the COVID-19 quarantine and all emergency situations.
During any emergency situation such as this one, the safety of our patients and residents is our first priority. Our goal is this situation, as in all others, is the provision of exceptional healthcare. If you have questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the Diversicare Care Line at (888) 508-9774 (choose option Covid19), which is available 24/7 to address your questions.”
Deadly For Nursing Homes
Most healthy people experience fairly mild COVID-19 symptoms, but the virus can be deadly for the elderly. So far, 3,708 Ohioans have died from COVID-19. Of those, 77% were 70 or older. Over 50% 2343 over 80. Over 70% of COVID-19 deaths and 25% of all COVID-19 cases are linked to nursing homes and other long-term care facilities.
The state stopped visits to nursing home patients to control the spread of the virus in the spring. Outdoor visits resumed at the end of July.
Nursing homes are required to contact family members of their residents if there is a COVID-19 outbreak at a facility.
