Health officials confirm COVID-19 outbreak at Grafton care facility; one man dead, four others test positive

GRAFTON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Health officials in Ozaukee County confirm there is an outbreak of COVID-19 at a long-term care facility in Grafton.

Kirsten Johnson, health officer of the Washington Ozaukee Public Health Department, said the county is closely monitoring the situation at Village Pointe Commons and officials are working to stop the spread of the virus.

A man is his 90s who lived in the memory care unit died Thursday. Officials said he had underlying health conditions and tested positive for the virus after his death.

"When we lose a family member, that’s a very difficult situation for us because it is… We feel as though it is one of our family members. And there’s an emotional bond between our care staff and... that resident," said Jim Tarentino, CEO of Capri Communities, at a news conference Friday afternoon.

Johnson confirms three other residents in the memory care unit have tested positive for the virus. Several other people are still being tested.

A caregiver at the facility has also been diagnosed with COVID-19. The caregiver is isolated at home and has not been to work since March 14.

“The health department is working closely with Village Pointe Commons leadership to ensure all individuals who come in contact with positive residents and caregivers are notified, excluded from work and monitoring symptoms. Every effort is being done to stop the spread of COVID-19 further," Johnson said.