RICHMOND, Va. -- More than 40 residents of Canterbury Rehabilitation & Healthcare in Henrico have tested positive for COVID-19, according to managers at the facility. Twenty-two of the 41 positive test results were reported over the past four days.
"It is with heavy hearts that we report the virus has claimed the lives of seven total Canterbury residents with confirmed COVID-19 diagnoses," a statement from the center read. "Two additional resident deaths are thought to be COVID-19 related."
Thirty-two patients are receiving treatment either at a regional hospital or at Canterbury.
"Our hearts go out to the families of those who have passed, and we deeply feel the loss within our community," Jeremiah Davis, Administrator, Canterbury Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center, said in a statement. "We have moved forward into testing all Canterbury staff and patients for COVID-19. We also are continually monitoring all Canterbury residents for COVID-19 symptoms, along with daily employee screenings. Those employees with respiratory symptoms or fever are prohibited from entering the facility."
Henrico County has reported 62 positive COVID-19 cases within the county, 41 cases located within this one facility.
COVID-19 Safety 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 non-essential travel.
- Avoid contact with sick people.
- Practice social distancing. Maintain at least six feet of space between yourself and other individuals when out in public.
- Avoid crowds of more than ten people.