More testing needed at Manatee County nursing homes, ALFs | Letter to the editor

Re: “Manatee County is about to be a hot spot for new COVID-19 cases, study predicts.”

There are several things that I worry about for Manatee County residents. As we have read in recent weeks, the number of COVID-19 cases in Manatee County nursing homes and assisted living facilities is very high. Why isn’t there a more concerted effort to test these residents? These residents could be asymptomatic, but still can carry the virus. Why not require all of these residents be tested?

By the time these residents become symptomatic, it is to late. Instead of playing catch-up why not take a more proactive approach? These residents are the most vulnerable. This is not only the smart thing to do, but also the right thing to do.

Reopening Florida is a fine line between the economy, jobless citizens, and public health. We have seen on the national level that politics are also playing into this mix.

The smart and right and smart thing to do is more widespread testing on a local, state, and national levels.

Steven DeKarske

Bradenton