22 residents have died of coronavirus at a Scottish care home

A total of 22 residents have died of suspected coronavirus at a care home - and more are showing symptoms of the virus.

A total of 22 deaths at Elderslie care home in Renfrewshire have been linked to coronavirus. Picture: Google

A further 11 residents have passed away at Elderslie Care Home in Paisley, Renfrewshire since mid-April - taking the total to 22.

Advinia Health Care, which runs the home, say more elderly people are also displaying symptoms - while some care home staff are self-isolating.

The residents displaying symptoms are being barrier nursed in isolation, away from other residents.

A spokesman for Advinia said: "We regret to advise that an additional 11 residents have now passed away after displaying symptoms consistent with coronavirus.

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of each resident at this sad time.

"A number of other residents are displaying some of the symptoms consistent with the virus and they are being barrier nursed and cared for in isolation as far as possible away from other residents, and in keeping with our strict infection control protocols.

The firm also used the opportunity to "pay tribute" to their staff during the difficult time, saying "they are a credit to the caring profession".

The spokesman said: "Our dedicated team at the home is led by a Queen's nurse of many years and all of our compassionate colleagues are pulling together to do their very best by the residents at this challenging time.

"It is true, that as in all healthcare settings, a number of our staff are self-isolating right now for their own health protection and that of the residents.

"As soon as anyone experiences symptoms we request that they take a test and liaise with the senior team at the home to determine their return to work date.

"We are communicating regularly with family members and we have spoken with all families who have a loved one directly impacted by the virus.

"Anyone who wants an immediate update about their loved one can call the home and speak to one of our care teams who will be more than happy to provide that information.

"We also encourage relatives to make use of our Google Hangouts facility so they can arrange video calls with their relative."We appreciate that this is a very worrying time for families but please be assured our colleagues are doing everything in their power to provide the best care possible at this time."

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