Report Shows Sharp Dip in Nursing Home COVID-19 Cases with Vaccine Rollout
- March 05, 2021
New cases of COVID-19 in the nation’s nursing homes dipped 82% since peaking in December 2020, according to a new report issued by the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL).
The dramatic decline, which is the lowest number of new COVID cases since May 2020, suggests vaccines may be helping to turn the tide for the nation’s elderly population in nursing homes, the groups said.
COVID-related deaths also have dropped significantly, down 63% since December 2020.
“We still have a long road ahead, but these numbers are incredibly encouraging and a major morale booster for frontline caregivers who have been working tirelessly every day for a year to protect our residents,” said Mark Parkinson, President and CEO of AHCA/NCAL. “This new data showcases just how important it is for nursing homes residents and staff, as well as the general public, to get the vaccine because it is clearly working.”
Parkinson also called on the administration to review current guidance on visitor and group activity restrictions. “With millions of residents and caregivers now fully protected thanks to the vaccines, residents must be able to safely reengage in meaningful activities and be reunited with their loved ones,” he added.