Missouri veterans homes restrict visitor access in effort to keep coronavirus out

Missouri Veterans Commission announced Saturday that it was restricting access to visitors to keep coronavirus out of its seven homes.

Missouri Veterans Homes provides nursing care to veterans and has locations in Cameron, Cape Girardeau, Mexico, Mt. Vernon, St. James, St. Louis and Warrensburg.

There are 1,238 beds across the state, according to the commission.

Citing a “presumptive positive” case of COVID-19 in St. Louis County — and one in Johnson County, Kansas — the commission announced on Facebook it was restricting access to visitors, vendors and volunteers until further notice.

The commission wrote it hopes the restriction will keep coronavirus out of all seven homes.

In lieu of visitation, the commission said staff will help coordinate other means of communication for loved ones.

“We will encourage communication with your loved one daily,” the post said. “Our staff will also assist those who want to ‘see’ their loved ones using FaceTime or with other video methods.”

Anyone with questions or concerns should call their local home administrator or Homes Program Assistant Director Brad Haggard at 573-301-6533 or Homes Program Director Roystan Pais at 573-508-3538, the post said.

The commission said the situation will be monitored daily and changes will be communicated promptly.

“We apologize for any inconvenience as we look to ensure the utmost protection of your loved ones,” the post said. “Thank you in advance for your patience and understanding.”

This story was originally published March 8, 2020 at 12:50 PM with the headline "Missouri veterans homes restrict visitor access in effort to keep coronavirus out."