Estremoz care home outbreak leads to four deaths and PGR inquiry

The Portuguese Public Prosecutor's Office (PGR) has opened an inquiry into the deaths of four elderly residents at the Lar da Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Veiros in Estremoz. The deaths occurred amidst a respiratory disease outbreak at the facility.

The Alentejo Central Local Health Unit (ULSAC) confirmed that 25 residents have shown symptoms compatible with Influenza A. While four deaths have been recorded, laboratory testing has only confirmed Influenza A in one of the cases. Two deaths occurred at the care home, and two occurred at the Hospital do Espírito Santo de Évora (HESE). In the hospital cases, one tested positive for the virus and one tested negative.

Currently, three residents infected with Influenza A are hospitalized at HESE, one is under observation in emergency care, and 21 others remain at the care home with compatible symptoms. To contain the spread, the institution has implemented isolation measures, increased hygiene protocols, and mandated the use of personal protective equipment. Two staff members have also reported symptoms and are currently isolated.