NEWTON, Iowa - A long-term care facility in Newton is the latest to report a COVID-19 outbreak.
The Newton Health Care Center reports 43 positive cases among residents and 10 among staff members. The center says it anticipates more results for residents and employees after completing all negative tests last week.
The center says All COVID positive residents are in secure COVID units, and all residents, regardless of virus status, remain in isolation. All staff members at Newton Health Care Center are wearing personal protective equipment.
There have been no deaths reported at the center.
“We continue to follow strict isolation protocols and guidance provided by local and state health departments," said Sharon DeSpain, Newton Health Care Center facility Administrator. "We are thankful that we have not had any Residents or staff pass away from this awful virus so far. Our staff will continue to do all we can to provide exceptional care to our Residents during such a difficult time.”
The Iowa Department of Public Health currently reports COVID-19 outbreaks at 17 long-term care centers in the state.