Massachusetts Department of Health reports COVID-19 cases in Fall River area nursing homes

Nursing homes and long term care facilities have been a hotbed for COVID-19 cases and fatalities, both in Massachusetts, and the country and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health has announced cases at Fall River area facilities.

The MDPH released figures for residences with 2+ cases of the virus concerning both staff and residents.

Southpointe Rehab, at 100 Amity Street in Fall River, has been confirmed to have 10-30 COVID-19 cases. We had contacted Southpointe this past weekend as they were being tested for the virus by the National Guard and they refused to answer our request. We had also received a complaint that staff did not have enough PPE, but we were not allowed to confirm the allegation with the facility.

It has been determined by MDPH that Kimwell Nursing Home, at 495 New Boston Road in Fall River, has more than 2, but less than 10 cases of the coronavirus. Kimwell was also tested by the National Guard last week. When we contacted the home concerning rumored cases involving staff, we were told the information was not accurate.

Fall River Healthcare at 1748 Highland Avenue in Fall River, was determined to have more than 2, but less than 10 cases among residents and staff.

Clifton Assisted Living at 444 Wilbur Avenue in Somerset was listed in the MDPH report as having more than 2, but less than 10 cases of COVID-19.

Brandon Woods, 567 Dartmouth Street in Dartmouth, was revealed to have greater than 30 cases. According to a press release by CEO of their parent company Essex Group Management Frank Romano, 7 residents have tragically passed and there are 66 confirmed cases.

Autumn Glen at 239 Cross Road in Dartmouth, had a report of more than 2, but less than 10 cases.

Hathaway Manor at 868 Hathaway Road in New Bedford has more than 2, but less than 10 cases, according to the report.

Massachusetts has 310 long-term care facilities reporting at least one case of COVID-19. Of the 3,153 deaths in Massachusetts from the virus, 1,810 have been in nursing home and long term facilities. 1,997 deaths overall have come from the 80+ age demographic.

The Baker-Polito Administration announced Monday a second round of funding of up to $130 million for nursing facilities to support COVID-19 response efforts over the next two months, as well as increased funding of $44 million for residential congregate care service providers. This funding will support staffing costs, infection control and personal protective equipment (PPE). In addition to increased financial support, the administration has implemented required testing for staff and residents of nursing facilities.