More Than Half Fairfield Coronavirus Deaths From Nursing Homes

FAIRFIELD, CT — More than half of the Fairfield residents who had died as of Thursday after contracting the new coronavirus lived in a nursing home, according to data recently released by the state.

As of Thursday, 21 new coronavirus patients in town had died, 13 of whom were nursing home residents. Fairfield had 246 confirmed cases of the virus as of Thursday, 45 of which came from nursing homes.

Across Connecticut, there were 375 virus-related deaths of nursing home residents and 1,713 confirmed cases inside nursing homes as of Thursday. Statewide, the total death toll from the virus Thursday was 971, and 15,884 active cases had been confirmed.

In Fairfield, Cambridge Health and Rehabilitation Center had the highest number of virus-associated deaths, with seven fatalities and 12 confirmed cases out of 160 total beds, according to the state. The Carolton Chronic and Convalescent Hospital had the most confirmed cases as well as the highest number of beds, with 21 cases, three of which resulted in death, and 229 beds. Ludlowe Center for Health and Rehabilitation had 12 confirmed cases, three virus-associated fatalities and 144 beds.

Every Fairfield resident who has died after getting the virus has been at least 50 years old, according to data posted Thursday on Facebook by First Selectwoman Brenda Kupchick. The majority of patients who had died — 13 people — were over 80 years old.

National Health Care Associates Inc., the network that includes both the Cambridge and Ludlowe facilities, is following guidance from state and local health officials as well as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention regarding the virus, according to an online statement from President Marvin Ostreicher. The facilities are restricting visitors, with exceptions such as end-of-life care. Virtual visits are allowed. The Carolton is offering video visits, but in-person visitors are prohibited, according to its website.

Officials with the Cambridge, Ludlowe and Carolton facilities did not respond Friday to emails requesting additional information.