Two elderly residents at a Scots care home have sadly died from suspected coronavirus.
Bosses at Braeside House Care Home in the Liberton area of Edinburgh confirmed the tragic news on Thursday afternoon.
A further three residents tested positive for COVID-19 but have all thankfully fully recovered since their diagnosis.
The home, which is run by the Royal Blind charity and offers care for elderly residents with significant sight loss, confirmed they had lost four residents over the last month.
Mark O’Donnell, Chief Executive of Royal Blind, said: “Royal Blind is saddened to confirm that in the last four weeks four of our residents have died.
“To date we have had no deaths that have had COVID-19 as the confirmed cause of death, although two were suspected.
“A further three residents who have tested positive for Covid-19 have subsequently fully recovered.
“Our priority is the safety of our residents and staff. We are following the advice of Health Protection Scotland to prevent the spread of further infection.”
He added: “All of those that have died did so peacefully in a place where they were comfortable, cared for by staff who knew them well, and who cared for them as individuals.
“Our thoughts continue to be with the families experiencing loss at this time, irrespective of the cause.”
As PPE shortfalls continue to plague social care workers across the country, Braeside House said they were fully equipped and doing their best to provide care for their residents.
Mr O’Donnell added: “We are putting all of our energies into supporting and protecting our residents and staff at this time and aim to use consistent staff as much as possible.
“We have a dedicated and committed core team of staff in Braeside House and in addition use agency and bank staff to address leave, absence and self isolation, in common with other care homes across Scotland.
“All staff are trained in infection control, and equipped with appropriate PPE.
“We are ensuring we continue to provide high-quality, kind care during this time, and maintain safe and appropriate staffing levels.
“This is in line with direction and advice from the Care Inspectorate.”
