There is no doubt that the coronavirus pandemic has significantly affected most people in this country. However, COVID-19 is particularly dangerous for those who reside in nursing homes. The first major outbreak of COVID-19 deaths in the United States happened at the Life Care Center in Washington state. Since that time, we have seen hundreds of nursing homes throughout the US deal with devastating coronavirus outbreaks. A recent survey conducted by The Associated Press found that nearly 11,000 nursing home residents have died due to COVID-19.
Who is most at-risk in these cases?
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has said that those who are aged 65 or over and those who have serious health conditions such as heart disease, lung diseases, diabetes, and a weakened immune system, are most at risk of becoming seriously ill due to COVID-19. The CDC also says that those who have chronic kidney diseases and are undergoing dialysis and those with liver disease face higher risks a severe illness or death due to coronavirus. Nursing home residents often fit into multiple at-risk categories.
How has this affected South Carolina nursing home residents?
According to the SC Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), the latest data shows that nearly 600 people who live or work in long-term care facilities in the state have been infected with COVID-19. DHEC says that 44 of those people have died due to complications from the virus. Nursing homes in South Carolina are under strict “no visitation” orders from the governor in order to limit the spread of COVID-19 amongst this vulnerable population.
Let us help you through this
If your loved one resides in a nursing home around the Greenville area, we know this is a difficult time for you and your family. At the Dan Pruitt Law Firm, we are here to help if you suspect that your loved one has been neglected or abused. You can contact our Greenville nursing home abuse attorney for a free consultation today to find out what your next steps should be.