New Orleans Retirement Home Reports 12 Confirmed Coronavirus Cases, 2 Deaths

Paula Liu
By Paula Liu
March 17, 2020COVID-19
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New Orleans Retirement Home Reports 12 Confirmed Coronavirus Cases, 2 Deaths
Hospital beds are seen in a file photo. (Alex Wong/Getty Images)

Louisiana reported two deaths and 12 confirmed cases of the Wuhan coronavirus, which causes the disease COVID-19, all in a New Orleans retirement home. There are two other deaths in the state as of Tuesday.

An 80-year-old man was the latest resident at the Lambeth House retirement home to die of the disease. On Monday, an 84-year-old from the same retirement house died from the coronavirus, Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards said.

There are 171 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Louisiana as of Tuesday and four total deaths. Lambeth House was awaiting results on more than a dozen other tests, spokesman Greg Beuerman told The Associated Press.

Edwards said on March 14 that the people who were most at risk are those with compromised immune systems.

“Those with underlying health issues are most at risk from the coronavirus. Those with compromised immune systems and are older should be taking extra precautions to avoid being affected with the coronavirus,” he said.

The governor has ordered bars, gyms and movie theaters to close and limited restaurants to delivery and takeout.

Dr. Jennifer Avegno, leader of the city health department, stressed that the virus was spreading much faster in New Orleans than in other U.S. cities.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has said people should wash their hands frequently with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coming home from an open and public area, blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

People should also cover their mouths and noses with a tissue or the inside of their elbow when sneezing or coughing, and the used tissues should be discarded into the trash before hand-washing.

If there is no option or available soap and water, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol. The CDC states that the sanitizer should cover all surfaces of your hands, and rubbed until dried.

Individuals who may be exhibiting symptoms should consult with their medical providers, the agency said.

The Associated Press contributed to this article.

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