x
Breaking News
More () »

Fifth coronavirus death reported at Chandler nursing home, 73 others test positive

Desert Cove Nursing Center in Chandler reported four patient deaths a week ago.

CHANDLER, Ariz. — Another death has been reported at a Chandler nursing home due to the coronavirus, and dozens of other patients and staff have tested positive for the virus too.

A fifth person has died at Desert Cove Nursing Center and 73 others have been diagnosed with COVID-19, a spokesperson said Friday.

The nursing center reported four deaths and 40 cases last week.

"Our primary concern is for the health and safety of our residents, nursing staff and other care providers," the center said in a statement.

"Our staff is trained in the proper use of PPEs and are following all relevant guidelines in infection control. They are putting in heroic efforts to ensure that our patients are receiving the best care."

They say 39 of the residents remain isolated while receiving treatment.

12 News examined federal data that found 50 facilities in Arizona have been cited in the last three years by Medicare for lacking an infection prevention and control program. 

Desert Cove Nursing Center had two deficiencies in that category in both 2018 and 2019. According to the database, all 50 of the facilities that were cited have since corrected the issues.

Other assisted living facilities and long term care facilities in the East Valley were having virus outbreaks. Last month, Pennington Gardens in Chandler reported that 13 residents died.

There were also dozens of cases at Avenir Memory Care in Chandler.

RELATED: Here is everything you need to know about coronavirus in Arizona on May 8

RELATED: Long-term care COVID-19 cases, deaths continue to increase as state does not release names of facilities

RELATED: Chandler nursing home confirms 4 people dead, dozens of residents, staff have COVID-19

Before You Leave, Check This Out