NewsFlorida News

Actions

Florida National Guard starts on-the-spot testing at nursing homes

Ron DeSantis Florida Governor
Posted at 2:34 PM, Apr 11, 2020
and last updated 2020-04-13 01:12:43-04

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — Members of the Florida National Guard have started on-the-spot testing of residents at nursing homes for the new coronavirus as long-term care facilities in the state have reported scores of cases.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said Saturday that guardsmen have conducted tests of residents and staff at nursing homes in South Florida. UF Health Shands has done other spot-testing at facilities.

In Clay County, 49 cases have been reported at long-term care facilities, and 51 cases among residents and staff have been reported at a nursing home in Suwannee County.

Last month, DeSantis ordered a suspension of all visits to nursing homes.