THE number of COVID cases has been rising for several weeks in Dumfries and Galloway, and across Scotland as a whole – and several care homes in the region have been affected.
Dumfries and Galloway Health and Social Care Partnership is working with the operator of Belmont Care Centre in Stranraer, Briery Park Care Home in Thornhill, and Westview Residence in Newton Stewart, and continues to work with the operators of Allanbank Care Home in Dumfries, Barlochan House in Castle Douglas, Dalawoodie Nursing Home in Dumfries, and Munches Park House in Dalbeattie.
As of the latest reports, 22 positive COVID-19 cases have been recorded among residents at Belmont, 17 at Dalawoodie, 17 at Munches Park, 14 at Barlochan, 12 at Allanbank, 6 at Westview, and 5 at Briery Park.
Very sadly, in the last week one care home resident has died within 28 days of testing positive for COVID. Thoughts are with the residents and staff at the care home during this difficult time.
The operators at care homes experiencing outbreaks have been faced with a challenging and difficult situation, but full credit is due to them and their very dedicated staff for the responses that have been mounted.
COVID-19 is very highly infectious, which means that containing its spread is not easy – even when it is being met with all the correct protocols, including regular testing and vaccinations.
The coronavirus can result in mild symptoms, and sometimes none at all, and this can mask its spread to more vulnerable individuals where it can pose a high degree of risk.
As has been noted, following the guidance around the use of PPE such as face coverings, around physical distancing, good hygiene and vaccination continues to be essential. But, though these are having a significant impact in restricting the spread of infection and preventing severe illness, they are not by any means absolute guarantees of protection.
It is essential that anyone experiencing symptoms of COVID self-isolate and arrange to be tested. Anyone who tests positive or develops symptoms within the two days following a visit to a care home or hospital should notify staff as soon as possible.
The symptoms of COVID-19 can be mild, but this does not reduce the level of risk to others from what can be a deadly virus. If in any doubt at all, please immediately self-isolate, arrange to be tested and work with our Test and Protect team to help limit any further spread.
The responsibility rests with everyone to do their part to try and limit the spread of coronavirus, and protect ourselves, our loved ones, neighbours, colleagues and communities.
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