THE owners of an Enniskillen care home which previously remained completely free of Covid-19, have confirmed an outbreak has affected both residents and staff, causing “immense sadness” to the Millcroft community, whom they regard as extended family.

Over the weekend, news broke that four residents had passed away from Covid-19, but that number has since increased.

It has now been confirmed 21 residents have tested positive – six of whom have passed away.

Three remain in hospital, and 12 staff are also currently impacted.

A spokesperson for the Millcroft Care Home said: “Having remained entirely Covid-19-free for the past six months, we can confirm we have suffered an outbreak affecting both residents and staff.

“With the support of the Western Health and Social Care Trust, we continue to work through all Covid-19 outbreak protocols, and maintain all infection prevention and control measures to ensure the health and safety of our residents and staff – our primary focus at this time.”

The spokesperson referred to: “Immense sadness among the staff team”, having lost a number of residents to the virus.

“We express our sincere condolences to the families of those deceased.

‘A personal toll’

“The impact of the virus has taken a personal toll on the entire Millcroft community, which is effectively an extended family.

“The management and staff team will continue to deliver the best possible care to our residents at this very challenging time.

“To those in recovery, both residents and staff, we look forward to welcoming them back to the home as soon as possible.”

Due to the focus on managing the outbreak, it was advised there will be no further comment at this time.