Residents at elderly home in Chile test postive for coronavirus

Relatives of elderly living in long term care housing in Santiago say they are concerned for the welfare of their loved ones.

On Monday, Healthcare Networks Undersecretary Arturo Zuñiga said that 12 elderly people had tested positive for COVID-19 at the Elderly Residences for Long Term Care, ELEAM, of Puente Alto.

On Tuesday, Rodrigo Gonzalez attempted to speak with staff through the fence of the facility but said he wasn't getting any information on the health of his grandmother.

Zuñiga said health professionals have evaluated all 94 elderly residents of the center in Santiago.

Zuñiga also said 37 people would be tested for the coronavirus, and that 15 people were hospitalized and in isolation as a result of preventive measures.

Chile currently has more than 2,730 cases of coronavirus and 12 deaths.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks.

For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, and could lead to death.