Llangollen care home reports 15 coronavirus related deaths in three weeks

Fifteen residents have died with coronavirus in the last three weeks at a care home in Llangollen.

Denbighshire Council issued a statement this morning confirming the deaths, along with 56 positive cases of the virus across the home.

A further 33 staff members have tested positive over the same period

Denbighshire Council said an incident management team has been established following the deaths, including the council, Public Health Wales and Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board.

Co-chair of the team, Nicola Stubbins, said: “We have been working together to investigate a number of cases of Coronavirus in staff and residents at Llangollen Fechan Care Home in Llangollen.

“We would like to assure all concerned that control measures have been put in place working jointly with the care home, including limiting the movement of staff and residents to reduce transmission.

“Our thoughts and condolences are with all affected and we remain committed to working together to address the situation.

“Anyone who meets the definition of a contact will be contacted as a routine part of the Test, Trace and Protect process and provided with additional advice for themselves, their household and other contacts.

“As we move into the next phase of the coronavirus pandemic we expect to see cases in a variety of settings, and we manage any clusters of coronavirus appropriately.

“This can include providing advice around infection prevention and control, and by supporting contact tracing where required.

“We remind the public that they have a vital role in preventing the spread of coronavirus.

“They can do this by adhering to Welsh Government regulations currently in place in Wales, and by observing social distancing guidelines – that’s staying two metres away from others – and washing hands regularly.”

Commenting on the news, Llyr Gruffydd, Plaid Cymru’s North Wales MS said: “This is deeply distressing news for the families and carers involved and my sympathy goes out to all affected.

“While every effort is being made to limit and control this deadly virus, sadly there are outbreaks like this and I’m sure this particular care home is not the only one facing these challenges.

“With that in mind, I’ve contacted the interim chief executive of Betsi Cadwaladr health board to ask about the extent of care home and hospital outbreaks across the North and what actions are being taken to ensure that rigorous infection control is in place to protect our most vulnerable citizens.”

Top image via CareHome.co.uk