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Nursing homes and care facilities throughout North America and Europe are in the spotlight over their Coronavirus mortality rates. Appalling stories have emerged, including allegations of inhumane treatment. Residential care facilities, such as nursing homes, have emerged as a key breeding ground for the COVID-19 infection. Global figures show that individuals aged 70 and older are at a higher risk of developing a serious illness or dying from the Coronavirus, and those over 85 are even more vulnerable.

Death Toll Rises as COVID-19 Sweeps Through Nursing Homes

In the United States, the Life Care Center of Kirkland in Washington State has become a focus of concern after 37 deaths and reports that the staff transmitted the virus to other care facilities in the area. According to ABC News, a daughter filed the first lawsuit against the facility for the wrongful death of her mother who was a resident there.

Another severe case involved a nursing home in Cedar Rapids, Heritage Specialty Care, which was found to have 100+ positive cases of COVID-19 between residents and staff members, as well as 17 fatalities. This particular facility had a history of not meeting federal standards for infection control and prevention. Like so many others, reports show the Heritage Specialty Care was not properly prepared to handle the Coronavirus. Public records dating back over a decade reveal that state inspectors frequently found the facility was not taking adequate steps to prevent and slow down the spread of infectious disease among residents.

Furthermore, in Texas, there have been serious outbreaks, but authorities refuse to release any information on infections or death rates in care homes. Also, authorities in California have advised that people move their loved ones from these facilities wherever possible. Many countries, including the U.S., are also reporting a shortage of protective equipment and testing kits in nursing homes, leaving staff and residents at greater risk.

How a Fort Myers Accident Law Firm Can Help

Nursing homes and long-term care facilities have an obligation to protect their residents from reasonably foreseeable harm. If you believe you lost a loved one to COVID-19 due to nursing facility misconduct and/or failing to follow federal and state guidelines, you may be eligible to submit a wrongful death claim and receive financial compensation.

If you are concerned about COVID-19 exposure at a nursing home or care facility and want to know more about your legal rights, contact Randall Spivey of Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. Randall Spivey is Board Certified by the Florida Bar in civil trial law, an honor achieved by only 1% of Florida lawyers. For over two decades, he has represented thousands of individuals in personal injury and wrongful death cases. Contact our Fort Myers accident law firm today, and we will set you up with a consultation to help you determine what steps you can take to receive justice for your loved one.