An elderly resident at a Perthshire care home has died of coronavirus, bosses have confirmed.
Devastated staff at Meigle Country House, near the Angus border, are now working “tirelessly” to prevent an outbreak and ensure the facility is safe for other residents, a spokesman said.
The 87-year-old’s death, on Friday, follows a string of similar tragedies at care homes up and down the country.
Harry Locherty, director of Dundee-based Priority Care which runs the remote 23-room Meigle establishment, said: “Sadly, we have had a confirmed case of Covid-19 that has proved fatal.
“Our staff team are devastated by this and are working tirelessly to ensure the home remains safe for all, with resident’s comfort and wellbeing their priority.”
Mr Locherty said: “We have contacted all families of our residents to advise of our position, and they remain concerned for their loved ones but very supportive of our staff.
“We have tried to shield the home from risk and prohibited visits from all non-essential persons, including family and friends, with effect from March 12.
“And, like many selfless, brave and generous colleagues in the care sector, our manager and staff members are on-site 24/7.
“The support from our community GP’s at Alyth health centre has also been outstanding.”
Mr Locherty said all guidance from governments, the Care Inspectorate and health and social care partners was being followed. “The guidance has proved invaluable and we have been following all protocals as instructed,” he said.
“Our suppliers and support network have been very supportive, and we have had sufficient stocks of required goods and equipment.”
The company has been told that more protective kit will be supplied later this week.
It emerged at the weekend that around half of Scotland’s privately-run care homes had suspected cases of coronavirus.
Trade body Scottish Care said some homes were straining to cope with a 30% drop in staff due to sickness and self isolation.
Chief execuvtive Dr Donald Macaskill said the virus had proved an “unprecedented challenge” for the sector.
