A coronavirus outbreak has killed 16 residents at a care home in Prestwick.

Berelands Care Home on Boydfield Avenue told families with residents at the home of the deaths today.

The Advertiser has been told that staff said 20 residents had died since the outbreak, with 16 related to COVID-19.

Families of relatives at the care home, run by Priory Adult Care, were informed after the staff apologised for not informing them sooner, citing fear of public exposure and media attention.

A spokesman for Berelands Care Home said: “It is with profound sadness that we can confirm the deaths of 16 residents since April 4.

"Of those, four tested positive for COVID-19, and 12 are suspected to have died of COVID-19 related symptoms.

"A further two residents have tested positive, and are being cared for at the home.

"Our deepest sympathies are with the bereaved families at this very difficult time and we offer them our continued support.

"We are working tirelessly to care for the residents in our home and we continue to follow all government guidance.

"Our team are all trained in infection prevention and control, including utilising the correct level of PPE for the protection of both residents and themselves.

"We continue to work closely with NHS Ayrshire and Arran.”

A spokesperson for the Care Inspectorate said: "We are aware of the tragic deaths of residents at this care home as a result of suspected cases of Covid-19. 

"Our thoughts are with the loved ones of those affected as well as the staff and wider community of the home. 

"We have been notified of the circumstances and we are in contact with the care service and the local health and social care partnership during this difficult time. 

"All of Scotland's social care sector is working tirelessly under very difficult circumstances to care for people during the pandemic and the Care Inspectorate is doing all it can to support them." 

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