Most COVID-19 Deaths in Multnomah County Can Be Traced to Two Nursing Homes

The local data track what’s happened statewide.

Healthcare at Foster Creek. (Wesley Lapointe)
By Aaron Mesh and Rachel Monahan

Thirteen of Multnomah County's first 20 deaths from COVID-19 are associated with just two Portland nursing homes.

People living in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities are at high risk from the virus, because the disease spreads through close contact and poses a greater risk to those who are older and otherwise infirm.

"That's not a surprise to us," says Kim Toevs, the county's director of communicable disease. "They are the most vulnerable people."

The local data tracks what's happened statewide: 32 of Oregon's 55 deaths, as of April 14, were at long-term care facilities.

Homemade signs of encouragement dot Portland neighborhoods. (Aaron Wessling)

COVID-19 Deaths in Multnomah County

9 at Healthcare at Foster Creek,
6003 SE 136th Ave.

4 at Laurelhurst Village,
3130 SE Stark St.

7 not in long-term care facilities

Source: Oregon Health Authority

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