COLONIAL HEIGHTS, Va. -- The Colonial Heights Rehabilitation and Nursing Center is the latest nursing home in Central Virginia to report coronavirus cases.
Five residents tested positive for COVID-19 and two of those residents have died, a spokesperson confirmed Friday.
Officials said four of those tests came back positive while the residents were in an area hospital.
The other patient died Friday morning on site in hospice care, a spokesperson said.
Facility officials said they are working with local and state health departments as well as "taking guidance" from the CDC to ensure the safety of residents and staff.
"This includes continuous monitoring of all residents for COVID-19 symptoms along with daily employee screenings," officials said. "Staff will be wearing masks throughout the facility as a precaution."
Additionally, officials said employees who are ill and have a fever must stay home.
"During this uncertain time, we ask for your patience as we all navigate the unknown, and rest assured we are all in this together and we will get through this together," officials said.
Virginia authorities reported more than 460 new cases of COVID-19 Friday, which is the largest one-day increase so far in the coronavirus pandemic.
The Virginia Department of Health now reports more than 4,500 positive tests for the coronavirus, four of which are in Colonial Heights, in the state. The death count has increased from 109 to at least 121.
COVID-19 Precautions
Most patients with COVID-19 have mild to moderate symptoms. However, in a small proportion of patients, COVID-19 can lead to more severe illness, including death, particularly among those who are older or those who have chronic medical conditions.
COVID-19 spreads primarily through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Symptoms include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Symptoms appear within 14 days of being exposed to an infectious person.
Virginia health officials urged the following precautions:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer only if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.Stay home when you are sick.
- Avoid contact with sick people.Avoid non-essential travel.