Virus outbreak at Perthshire care home

25 cases believed to be confirmed

Enhanced measures designed to control the spread of infection have been enforced at a Blairgowrie care home following “a number” of positive COVID-19 cases.

NHS Tayside’s Public Health Team, management and other agencies were yesterday still investigating the incidents at Beech Manor Care Home in Blairgowrie.

It is thought around 25 positive cases have been confirmed although a precise number has not been formally revealed in line with national clinical guidelines in relation to patient confidentiality.

A spokesperson for parent company Renaissance Care, which manages the 45-bed home on Golf Course Road, said: “We can confirm that a number of staff and residents at Beech Manor Care Home have tested positive in what is the first outbreak of COVID-19 at the home.

“The staff have been working incredibly hard and have taken all possible precautions and safety measures in conjunction with the local council and health authorities, and are implementing strict control measures in line with the latest Health Protection Scotland guidance.”

Dr Daniel Chandler NHS Tayside’s associate director of public health said: “NHS Tayside’s Public Health Team is working with Perth and Kinross Council and Perth and Kinross Health and Social Care Partnership to investigate a number of cases of COVID-19 in residents and staff at Beech Manor Care Home in Blairgowrie.

“The home is currently not accepting new admissions.

“Enhanced infection prevention and control measures are in place at the home and residents are being closely monitored.

“Contact tracing has been completed and all close contacts have been identified and given appropriate advice.

“A programme of immediate testing for staff and residents has also been carried out, in addition to the routine weekly staff testing.”

The outbreak comes as the drop in the Perth and Kinross infection rate showed signs of slowing.

The weekly infection rate per 100,000 people was 96.7 per 100,000 on December 3, with 147 positive tests in that period.

The week before there had been 149 positive tests at a rate of 98.1 per 100,000 people.

However, the percentage of positive tests has once again fallen below five per cent.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon will reveal if Perth and Kinross will change coronavirus levels from Friday at her weekly update on Tuesday, December 8.

The latest figures make a move out of level three appear unlikely.