Florida Nursing Homes Quarantined to Prevent Spread of Norovirus
A South Florida news source reports that nursing homes in Brevard County, Florida, are establishing quarantine due to the dreaded norovirus spreading among residents. Norovirus is highly contagious and causes intense stomach and intestinal distress, including vomiting and diarrhea. The virus tends to come on quickly and cause gastro problems for 24 hours, though patients report feeling sick or weak for several days after the initial episode subsides.
As a Palm Beach County, Fla. nursing home neglect attorney knows -- Florida nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and retirement communities are entrusted with the safe and compassionate care of so many Sunshine State families' parents and grandparents.
FloridaToday.com reports that 8 nursing homes in Brevard County, Fla., have been hit by norovirus. Quarantines may limit visitor access until a few days after the last case of a sick patient is reported. Norovirus may be passed on by ingesting contaminated foods or liquids, or by touching a surface where norovirus is present and then putting hands in mouth. Regular hand washing is recommended to avoid norovirus.
Nursing home safety and sanitation is of utmost concern to people who live in South Florida -- where so many snowbirds and other seniors retire and never leave. Nursing home neglect and abuse are serious charges. Unfortunately, sometimes the institutions that are entrusted with our elderly loved ones' care can intentionally or indirectly inflict harm upon them -- either through physical abuse or neglect, poor care, and/or lack of adequate facilities. Issues around medical negligence or malpractice, such as prescription drug errors, may also arise in Florida skilled nursing facilities where patients are administered medications.
Experienced West Palm Beach injury lawyers can help families determine if they have a case, when a loved one in a nursing home is hurt due to negligence or recklessness.
Nursing Homes Quarantined Due to Norovirus
WFTV.com 9 Jan. 5, 2011
Norovirus hits 8 Brevard nursing homes
FloridaToday.com Jan. 5, 2011
Related Web Resources:
CDC.gov: Prevent the Spread of Norovirus
Florida AHCA Nursing Home Watch List
Past Florida Accident Attorney blog article:
State Attorney Calls West Palm Beach Summit on Florida Pain Clinics and Prescription Drug Abuse
