x
Breaking News
More () »

Nursing home outbreak confirmed in Carroll County

An outbreak's been confirmed at Big Meadows Restorative Nursing Care.
Credit: Big Meadows Restorative Nursing Care

SAVANNA, Ill. — The Carroll County Health Department's confirmed a coronavirus outbreak at a nursing home.

Administrator Craig Beintema says the outbreak's at Big Meadows Restorative Nursing Care. He said seven staff and 11 residents have tested positive, in a phone call Friday, August 7.

Beintema says there have been 59 positive cases countywide, but 22 of those cases have been confirmed in the last two weeks. Four people have died so far. All four have been in their 80's. 

Why has there been a big increase?

Beintema says 50% relate to the outbreak at the nursing home. The other 50% attributed to social gatherings like weddings.

Illinois State House Representative Tony McCombie released a statement last month, referencing news she received Wednesday, July 22nd after a golf outing she held at Palisades Golf Course.

“Late Wednesday I was made aware that an attendee of the golf outing which was held on Saturday, July 18th tested positive for the virus. I spoke with the health department and notified all event attendees. We encouraged and will continue to encourage those that choose to participate in any event to follow the CDC Prevention guidelines to protect themselves and those around them. Wash hands often, avoid close contact, where a face covering when not able to maintain a 6’ social distance and monitor your own health. If you are sick please stay home and contact a medical professional!” 

McCombie said she notified the Whiteside County Health Department after the event took place. 

A spokeswoman from the Carroll County Health Department said Friday, August 7th, "None of the positive cases for Carroll County have identified this golf outing as an event within the time frame of 48 hours before onset of symptoms or 48 before getting tested." 

Regardless, there will be a community testing site at West Carroll Middle School at 633 South East Street, Mt. Carroll from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on August 10, 11 and 13. 

Download the free News 8 App – for iOS, click here and for Android, click here.

Before You Leave, Check This Out