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COVID Outbreaks in Nursing Homes Are Once Again On the Rise

By June 23, 2021February 2nd, 2024No Comments
COVID Outbreaks in Nursing Homes Are Once Again On the Rise

Over a year after the COVID-19 pandemic began, and months after the rollout of a vaccine, outbreaks of the virus in nursing homes in Florida are once again on the rise. Source.

As much of the world is reopening, senior citizens living inside of nursing homes and assisted living facilities are still at an increased risk of infection. In the past month, almost twenty percent of Florida nursing homes reported new cases of COVID-19. This is nearly double the national average, which sits at ten percent, according to the AARP. 

Those residing in nursing homes are never fully isolated from the virus, as the staff enters and exits every day. And, while Florida seems to be on track with the vaccination of seniors and nursing home residents, that has not been the case with nursing home staff. Florida is currently behind forty-six of the fifty states in nursing home staff vaccinations – falling only ahead of Wyoming and Mississippi. While only forty-two percent of Florida’s nursing home staff has been vaccinated, around seventy percent of nursing home residents have received at least one dose of their vaccine.

Many staff members claim that they do not trust the science behind the vaccine, which is much of the reason many are refusing to get vaccinated. However, this may be the biggest factor in recent nursing home outbreaks. By refusing the vaccine, the staff is unintentionally putting residents at a higher risk of contracting COVID-19.

At Beltz & Beltz, we believe that your loved ones should not have to suffer while in a nursing home. While it is the individual’s decision whether or not to receive the vaccine, it is understandable that you would be frustrated to learn that your loved one has been put at greater risk due to unvaccinated staff. If your loved one has suffered in a nursing home, contact Beltz & Beltz today. Our team of experienced attorneys will work hard to get your family justice.