Almost two weeks before the first COVID-19 case was identified in the country, visits to nursing homes in Turkey were restricted. Six weeks earlier, the country had also begun implementing measures to protect its older citizens from the virus. A series of timely preventive measures such as these, supported by WHO, helped to limit the spread of the virus in many of Turkey’s care homes.
The WHO Country Office in Turkey provided technical expertise, in line with WHO guidance, to the Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Services. WHO support has helped directors of nursing homes across Turkey to procure adequate personal protective equipment (PPE), minimize travel, maintain hygiene standards, and improve testing protocols, nutrition and visiting policies.
WHO advice helped establish quarantine measures and nursing home staff acted in accordance with the rules. Residents were asked not to go outdoors and staff had to work on a fixed 7-, 10- or 14-day rotations.
Quarantine measures meant visitors were not allowed into care homes, even though staff continued with activities such as music groups and offering psychosocial support to residents.
Other interventions included getting diagnosed early and health screenings in care homes four times a day. In addition, testing and general check-ups were given to all staff clocking in and out on fixed shifts.
WHO thanks all donors and partners who have contributed to fund the Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan to combat COVID-19. A special appreciation goes to Member States and other contributors who provided flexible funds, making it possible for WHO to deliver a coherent, strategic and broad response.
Read more about how Turkey has been successfully protecting elderly in care homes
Read more about WHO’s response to COVID-19