Coronavirus: Seven deaths at care home after outbreak

Seven residents of a care home in West Lothian have died, following a “significant outbreak” of coronavirus.

Redmill Care Home in East Whitburn was closed to visitors after the first case was identified.

All residents are self-isolating and additional testing of staff and residents was carried out.

NHS Lothian said: “Our thoughts are with their families and with care home staff at this very sad and difficult time.”

Dr Richard Othieno, public health consultant at the board and chair of the incident management team said: “Early action to isolate residents and begin enhanced testing has enabled us to identify positive cases before they become symptomatic.

“Even without an outbreak, and without showing any of the classic symptoms of Covid-19, residents in this care home are tested if they appear at all unwell or not their usual selves.

“As in all care homes, staff are routinely tested weekly through the UK national testing portal. This vigilance and the early introduction of enhanced infection control measures gives the best chance of limiting the spread of infection.

“Repeat rounds of testing of residents and staff is continuing and the situation is being monitored very closely.

“This outbreak is a reminder that even if you do not yet have symptoms, you can still have Covid-19 and that is why self-isolation is crucial as soon as you have been in contact with a confirmed case.

“As part of the infection control measures, the home was closed to visitors. We know this is difficult for residents and their relatives, but it is necessary to ensure the outbreaks are brought under control as quickly as possible and we thank relatives for their co-operation and understanding.”