nursing homes

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo is speaking out against accusations that his administration has not been forthcoming about the scope of nursing home deaths related to COVID-19.

As of Friday, long-term care facilities were linked to about 35 percent of the 28,565 deaths of Floridians from COVID-19, according to a report released by the state Department of Health.

Amid accusations of a cover-up, state lawmakers have called for investigations, stripping Gov. Andrew Cuomo of his emergency powers and even his resignation.

While many residents agree to get vaccinated, an overwhelming number of employees at those facilities are not getting the shots.

Gov. Ron DeSantis says the state will offer COVID-19 vaccinations to all residents and staff at long-term care facilities by Sunday, but nearly 1,000 facilities have yet to receive vaccines.

Nearly 30 states temporarily shielded nursing homes from COVID-19 lawsuits. But resident advocates say that protection means they can't sue for things that have nothing to do with the coronavirus.

Atria, a Kentucky-based operator with 10 facilities in Florida, wants its 10,000 employees nationwide to receive the shots.

Gov. Ron DeSantis is touting his plan to distribute vaccines to people 65 and older ahead of much of the country. But the rollout has had logistical problems.

State data show that the vast majority of the deaths involve residents of nursing homes and ALFs, with one facility in Miami-Dade accounting for 70 resident deaths and another for 56.

The rise in deaths has advocates worried about Christmas gatherings and other yearend celebrations.