Kentucky Public Health Commissioner Steven Stack says he’s been focusing heavily on addressing coronavirus cases in nursing homes in one county after another.
During Sunday night’s public briefing, Stack referenced a moment last week when he became emotional about the virus’ spread. He said it was a reflection on the effort being made by front line caregivers such as those in long term care facilities. “I got emotional because I have been exposed to the severe anguish and distress of healers and leaders in their communities at the point of breaking and beyond because they are up close and personal to this and seeing things the public has not seen,” said Stack.
Governor Beshear said he hoped to not have to report any new deaths on Easter Day. But, the governor noted there were three deaths and 134 new cases of COVID-19. Beshear announced a partnership with Kroger to launch the state’s first drive through testing this week in Frankfort. Those eligible include health care workers, first responders and those with chronic health conditions.
Beshear was asked about a church near Louisville where people gathered for an Easter service that reportedly included two visitors from New Jersey. The governor said it was one of a very few churches that did hold in-person services. “I want the story of the day to be the fact that, I know we have way more than 5000 churches in Kentucky. I know we have way more. And we believe there were about seven that did an in-person service today,” explained Beshear.
Both Beshear and Stack have indicated gatherings like this have been linked to an outbreak of cases and deaths.
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