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3 more deaths reported at Henrico center

Posted at 12:35 PM, Apr 05, 2020
and last updated 2020-04-05 19:08:50-04

HENRICO COUNTY, Va. -- Canterbury Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center, the site of the largest COVID-19 cluster in Henrico County, reported its 20th COVID-19 related death Sunday.

'It is with heavy hearts that Canterbury reports the death of three COVID-19 positive patients over the last 48-hour period. In total, the virus has claimed the lives of 20 patients," said spokesman Sunday.

The center has also reported two more cases since Friday, bringing the total to 93 residents positive for COVID-19.

"They are receiving treatment either at a regional hospital or, per guidance from the Henrico County Health Department, onsite at Canterbury," said Canterbury Administrator Jeremiah Davis.

Forty patients who tested positive are showing symptoms that ranged from severe to mild.

However, the majority (53) of those who tested positive are asymptomatic and showed no signs of illness, Davis wrote in an email.

"They didn't know that they had this virus at all," Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam said during a news briefing Friday. "This demonstrates how absolutely critical it is that everyone stay home -- and stay away from other people. Because people can have this virus without knowing it, or feeling sick."

Thirty-five Canterbury residents tested negative for COVID-19, Davis confirmed.

Additionally, 25 healthcare workers at the facility have tested positive, but some additional results "remain outstanding," but all Canterbury staff members have been tested, officials said Sunday.

Northam said his heart goes out to nursing home residents who "have no choice."

"Regarding our asymptomatic population, it is hopeful that many of these residents will never develop severe symptoms," he said. "It is important to know that based on patterns observed elsewhere, many are likely to remain asymptomatic."

According to the Virginia Department of Health website, which is updated daily, there are 194 positive cases in Henrico County and a total of 2,637 across the Commonwealth.

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.