Life Care Center of Lewiston confirms 17 residents have died since COVID-19 was first detected in facility

May 1, 2020 11:38 AM

Erin Robinson,

Posted: May 1, 2020 11:38 AM

by Erin Robinson

covid testing — (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)

LEWISTON, Idaho — The Life Care Center of Lewiston issued a statement Friday confirming 17 residents have died since COVID-19 was first detected in the facility.

The first coronavirus case in the care center was discovered on March 25, 2020 and both residents and staff were notified the following day.

Eight of the 17 deaths were confirmed COVID-19 positive residents. According to the facility, as of Friday, 34 residents tested positive, 14 have recovered and 29 people tested negative.

Of the 125 employees, 14 have tested positive for COVID-19. Two tests are pending and five have been returned negative.

The latest data from the state shows there have been 18 COVID-related deaths in Nez Perce County and 51 confirmed cases.

“Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends of the residents who have passed away,” the facility said in a statement. “Our facility is a family, and we’re all working together to take care of our residents and each other. We remain committed to providing quality care as we fight COVID-19.”