Specially trained teams of Alabama National Guardsmen are being sent to help the state’s nursing homes, several of which are experiencing COVID-19 outbreaks.

The servicemembers will be tasked with disinfecting the nursing homes where coronavirus has been identified, and will also train staff in how to properly used personal protective equipment.

“The Alabama National Guard is here to serve our citizens, and I’m glad Governor Ivey asked us to take on this important mission,” said Major General Sheryl E. Gordon, adjutant general of the Alabama National Guard, in remarks accompanying an Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) release that announced the news on Friday.

Information from the ADPH shows that in Alabama’s longterm care facilities, a term that encompasses both nursing homes and assisted living facilities, 233 employees have tested positive for COVID-19 along with 276 residents.

Brandon Farmer, president and CEO of the Alabama Nursing Home Association, stated, “Our members are grateful for this assistance from Governor Ivey, the Alabama National Guard and ADPH.”

“This service will greatly supplement our infection control efforts,” added Farmer.

Dr. Scott Harris, head of the Alabama Department of Public Health, said the guard units “will provide a valuable service which will allow more time for the nursing home staff to focus on patient care.”

Henry Thornton is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can contact him by email: [email protected] or on Twitter @HenryThornton95