Four people with coronavirus symptoms die in care home

Portsmouth City Council has confirmed four people have died in the same  local care home after showing symptoms of coronavirus.

In a statement, the local authority said a total of five residents have passed away at Harry Sotnick House.

It said four were showing symptoms of coronavirus and one was not. 

The council added there are currently a number of other residents who are currently showing coronavirus symptoms and they are being cared for in isolation within the home.

It added there has been no formal diagnosis through testing for these cases, as Public Health England guidance states tests should not be used if there will be no change to the care given

The home has been closed to visitors since 22 March.

The families and carers of Harry Sotnick House residents have been written to and are being supported by members of staff at the home.

The council said it introduced a number of measures in Harry Sotnick House, including increasing the cleaning regime and using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) in line with Public Health England guidance.

‘This is an incredibly sad and difficult time for our residents and families,’ said Portsmouth City Council’s cabinet member for health, wellbeing and social care, Cllr Matthew Winnington. 

‘Our thoughts are with those who have lost loved ones and those who are concerned about the wellbeing of the people in our care.

‘We are doing all we can to keep our residents and staff as safe as possible, and are following the infection control processes we have put in place for COIVD-19. We are working with Public Health England specialists. We have shared our plans with them, and they have endorsed the approach we are taking. We’re keeping families updated on everything we are doing,’ added Cllr Winnington. 

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