COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Six positive cases of the novel coronavirus have been identified at an El Paso County senior living center, according to a news release distributed Thursday evening.
The cases of COVID-19 have been reported at the Laurel Manor Care Center at 920 Chelton Road in Colorado Springs. According to its website, it is operated by the volunteers of America.
In the release, El Paso County Public Health Director Susan Wheelan said her team became aware of the cases late Thursday afternoon and “took immediate action to coordinate efforts with Laurel Manor Care Center and state partners.”
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Efforts are now underway to help sick patients as well as isolate them from other seniors and staff at the facility.
“Proactive efforts are focused on identifying, isolating and testing all of those who may be at risk because of these new cases,” the release reads.
As of Thursday afternoon, there were 15 confirmed COVID-19 cases in El Paso County, and two deaths.
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The first coronavirus death in Colorado was an El Paso County woman in her 80s.
Health officials have said COVID-19 is more likely to impact those of 60 or people with preexisting health conditions. Health officials have previously said two coronavirus cases were reported at a Loveland nursing home.
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to the closure of schools, restaurants, bars and more across Colorado and the country as health officials touted the benefits of "social distancing" to slow the spread of the virus.
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