Press release via Heritage House at Paris Rehab & Nursing
In light of the seriousness of COVID 19 virus and it’s effect on the elderly population we care for and are our number one priority, as well as those with compromised immune systems, we will be restricting all visitors.
Reason We are Restricting Individuals from Entering our Buildings
The current COVID-19 outbreak situation means that it is critical that we take every precaution possible. We must prevent this virus from entering our center. Protecting our residents’ health and safety is our top priority. We must also protect our team’s health so that they may continue to care for your loved ones.
The CDC has done a careful review of the death rate in the elderly, especially those with dementia or chronic diseases. Experts are recommending we take action to restrict individuals from entering our building and to ensure sick employees stay home.
Early data shows that
• The mortality rate for people over 80 in the general population is 15% in China.
• The World Health Organization report estimates the mortality rate at 21.9% for those over 80.
• At the nursing home in Washington state, there have been 50 residents who have tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. As of March 9, 2020, 19 of those have died. This is a high death rate.
There is a risk that people who appear healthy will enter nursing homes and infect residents. Studies of past viral epidemics where recommending prevention was delayed were not effective. These studies show that the sooner we limit interactions with each other and wash your hands frequently virus spreads more slowly.
These facts have led many to recommend severe restrictions on visitors. This describes why we have taken this action now.
We hope this explains to you why we are asking people to stop their visits to the nursing facilities. This may prevent you from physically seeing your family member or friend. Our residents’ health and safety are our top concern. We are committed to doing everything we can to protect them.
Thank you for supporting these efforts.