Due to the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), nursing facilities in the area are taking precautions to protect the vulnerable populations housed inside.

Per recommendation from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), visitation has been suspended at Seminole County nursing homes. Phone calls and letters were sent to families of residents in nursing facilities to update them on the new protocols.

All residents are required to stay inside the facilities, including residents that have been previously allowed to leave and return. Staff members and physicians at the facilities are the only members allowed to enter the buildings, and many have restricted access to a single door.

All staff members are subject to a questionnaire about their potential symptoms and must have their temperature checked to ensure they do not have a fever before entering the facility. Sanitization stations have been set up for staff members throughout the buildings.

Residents are actively monitored daily for fever and respiratory symptoms, including shortness of breath, new or change in cough and sore throat. If a resident has a fever or symptoms, they must follow infection prevention and control procedures. Group field trips and activities have been canceled.

Vendors are not allowed inside the facilities and are required to unload various supplies outside of the building. Staff members that have been previously tested are allowed to transport the various goods and materials inside the nursing homes.

These measures are to remain in place until further notice from the CDC.