PITTSBORO — After two early reports citing six positive COVID-19 tests from the Laurels of Chatham skilled nursing facility late last week, the Chatham County Public Health Department dropped bigger news Sunday morning.
A total of 57 individuals who either work at or live in the facility have tested positive for the novel coronavirus, the county said in a press release. After UNC Health, the county health department and the facility conducted universal tests on Friday, the numbers came back, and county Public Health Director Layton Long indicated it was no surprise.
“We anticipated that universal testing at the facility would reveal more positive cases, and we remain concerned for the staff, residents and their families affected by this outbreak,” Long said. “While COVID-19 is highly infectious, especially in congregate living facilities, we remain focused on limiting the spread of the virus. We will continue to work closely with The Laurels of Chatham to do everything possible to contain this outbreak.”
The center had announced on Tuesday, April 7, that it had "recently received confirmation of positive cases" at the facility, located at 72 Chatham Business Park Drive. According to the Laurels of Chatham website, the 140-bed facility had been closed to visitors per restrictions from the federal government, with the exception of some "compassionate care situations" like end-of-life, since March 11.
Rob Peck, Laurel Health Care Company's regional director of operations, said in an April 7 press release that at least one resident was being treated at a "local hospital."
"As the safety and well-being of our residents, employees, visitors, and surrounding community is our top priority, we are doing everything we can to limit the spread of the virus," Peck said. "Affected staff are being treated off-site and will not be returning to work until cleared to do so, consistent with CDC guidelines. We greatly appreciate everyone’s cooperation, understanding and support during this unprecedented time."
Not all of those who tested positive are Chatham residents, so the full tally isn't reflected in Chatham's official positive test count — which rose to 63 total on Sunday, a 23-person increase from Saturday.
The county press release stated that the health department would continue to work with Laurels of Chatham and "all congregate living facilities in the county" to share guidance in the following weeks.
"“We are grateful for the courage and dedication of health care and public health workers,” Long said. “This outbreak is a reminder to all Chatham County residents of the importance of following public health guidance. Now more than ever before, we must: Stay at home except for essential trips, avoid gathering with others who don’t live with you, maintain distance from others if you must go out, wear a face covering and wash your hands regularly. Our ability to slow the spread of the virus, protect our critical workers and those at greatest risk of serious illness, and respond to events like this depends on everyone taking responsibility.”
Reporter Zachary Horner can be reached at zhorner@chathamnr.com or on Twitter at @ZachHornerCNR.