Second South Port Square resident dies of COVID-19 in Charlotte County

In a letter dated April 3, South Port Square in Charlotte Harbor confirmed Sunday a second resident of its senior living community died of the coronavirus.

In the letter, Executive Director Brian Hess shared his condolences for the patient’s family and friends on behalf of the entire South Port Square community.

“This is a profoundly painful time for all of us at South Port Square,” Hess shared in the letter. “While we grieve, we are focused on supporting residents and employees alike.”

South Port Square has increased its precautionary measures throughout its community in response to the spread of COVID-19 and is following ongoing updates to CDC guidelines.

The letter also says the senior community has tested approximately 16 of its 600 residents and 430 colleagues for coronavirus in the last three weeks.

Along with the two resident who have died, there are two other residents currently hospitalized, with COVID-19 test results pending. South Port Square says the majority of employees and residents tested for COVID-19 have been negative for the virus.

“This is an uncertain time for all of us,” Hess shared in the letter. “We continue to learn new information every day about COVID-19 and will implement more stringent guidelines if we believe they will help protect the community.”

IF YOU FEEL SICK:

The Florida Department of Health has opened a 24-hour COVID-19 Call Center at 1-866-779-6121. Questions may also be emailed to covid-19@flhealth.gov. Email responses will be sent during call center hours.

LINK: Florida Department of Health COVID-19 updates

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