Another child is dead as a result of an ongoing outbreak at the Wanaque Center For Nursing And Rehabilitation in New Jersey. Both the staff at the facility as well as state authorities are continuous in the efforts to contain the spread of the virus.
Eighth Death At Rehabilitation Center
On Oct. 27, the New Jersey Department of Health announced the eight death associated with the ongoing adenovirus outbreak at a rehabilitation center in New Jersey, though authorities are still waiting for the laboratory results to confirm whether adenovirus was or was not present in the child who recently passed away.
As of the announcement, the total number of confirmed adenovirus cases at the facility is at 23, with seven deaths confirmed to be linked to the outbreak. That said, investigations on the outbreak are ongoing, and so are the measures to prevent the further spread of the virus.
While adenovirus typically does not cause serious illness, the children at the facility are quite ill, and therefore have compromised immune systems.
Alleged ‘Filthy Conditions’
This past week, a worker from the facility stated that the supposed “filthy conditions” at the facility possibly played a part in the outbreak. According to the worker, the facility had mold, dirty rooms, old and dusty equipment, and that bees would even occasionally fly into patients’ rooms.
In a government review, the facility was actually given an above-average ranking in terms of overall quality, but a below-average health inspection rating. Specifically, it was determined that the facility failed to provide a clean and home-like environment for their residents.
Ongoing Investigation
So far, investigations are ongoing, and so are the efforts to contain the illnesses. In a statement by the union representing the 70 nursing staff at the facility, they state that they continue to work to contain the spread of the virus, to urge the management to provide adequate supplies so as to prevent cross contamination, and to advocate for stronger protocols in regard to infection control policies.
Similarly, the states’ health department also ensures that it is working very closely with the facility to monitor the illness outbreak, and to ensure that all infection control measures are being followed.
