FAMILIES in the south of the county are are being asked not to visit loved ones in care homes, after a rise in Covid cases in the areas.
Worcestershire County Council Public Health teams have taken the precautionary decision to close visits to care homes across Wychavon District and in Malvern with immediate effect. Only essential visits will be allowed.
In the past week both districts have seen increasing cases of Covid-19.
As part of the outbreak control plan, the county has a multitude of measures and support available to help prevent an outbreak and reduce the spread of the virus.
The decision to restrict care home visits is one of those options. It’s considered a necessary precaution as the numbers have increased. The need to protect our elderly and vulnerable residents is paramount.
Dr. Kathryn Cobain, Director for Public Health for Worcestershire said: “The decision to stop care home visits is not one we have taken lightly.
“I appreciate this will cause upset and frustration for some of our residents and I recognise this is very difficult for families. Looking at the rising numbers of cases in the district, we are concerned about the welfare of our most vulnerable and the wider community. I need to protect those at risk and prevent the further spread of Covid. We will review this on a daily basis and will lift these restrictions when we see numbers falling again. This is a sensible precautionary measure, it is better to act now than later. “
Coun Adrian Hardman, cabinet member for Adult Social Care said; “Our priority must be protecting our elderly and most vulnerable residents. As we see cases of Covid rising in the community it is essential that we take the necessary action to stop Covid spreading.
“If anyone has believed that Covid has gone away, this is a reminder to us all that it remains in our community. We all have our part to play to keep everyone safe. Please keep your distance, wash your hands and wear face coverings. It really is simple to do and you will be saving lives.”
