East Baton Rouge Senior Centers Temporarily Close Due to COVID-19 Outbreak
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Following a recent outbreak of COVID-19, the East Baton rouge council on Aging has announced a temporary suspension of regular activities at its 16 senior centers. Agency officials believe the virus may have spread during a weekend event, prompting the precautionary measure to protect vulnerable seniors.
Senior Centers Transition to “Grab-n-Go” Lunch Service
The Council on Aging announced the changes on Tuesday, stating that all centers will transition to a “Grab-n-Go” lunch service on Wednesday, July 2nd, and Thursday, July 3rd, from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM. This will allow members to collect their meals while minimizing contact and potential transmission. The agency ensured members would still receive their scheduled BBQ lunch and watermelon on Thursday.
Did You Know? According to the CDC,as of june 2025,updated COVID-19 vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older to protect against serious illness [1].
Protecting Vulnerable Seniors
EBR Council on Aging CEO Tasha Clark-Amar addressed the situation on the agency’s weekly radio show, emphasizing the importance of preventing further spread, especially to those with compromised immune systems, diabetes, or other pre-existing conditions. At least three senior centers reported members becoming ill, leading to concerns about the potential for wider transmission following the Senior Skip darty event.
Mary Louise Spencer, a member of the Council on Aging, expressed her support for the decision, stating, “I’m just concerned that it’s so easy for things to spread especially among seniors with most of us having underlying medical conditions.”
Meals on Wheels to Continue Uninterrupted
While regular activities are paused at the senior centers, Meals on Wheels deliveries are expected to continue without interruption, ensuring that homebound seniors continue to receive essential nutrition. the senior centers are scheduled to fully reopen on Monday,July 7th.
Pro Tip: Seniors can reduce their risk of contracting COVID-19 by practicing frequent handwashing, wearing masks in crowded indoor settings, and staying up-to-date on vaccinations.
COVID-19 Trends in Louisiana
Recent data from the CDC indicates that Louisiana is among a group of states experiencing growth or likely growth in COVID-19 infections. Though, visits to emergency rooms remain very low, suggesting that the current wave is not resulting in severe illness for most people.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| July 2-3, 2025 | “Grab-n-Go” Lunch Service |
| July 7, 2025 | Scheduled Reopening of Senior centers |
What measures are being taken to ensure the safety of seniors upon reopening?
How can seniors stay informed about any further changes to the senior center schedule?
Understanding COVID-19 and Senior Health
COVID-19 poses a greater risk to older adults, particularly those with underlying health conditions. According to the National Institute on Aging, seniors are more likely to experience severe illness, hospitalization, and death from the virus. This is due to age-related changes in the immune system and the increased prevalence of chronic diseases among older adults.
Since the start of the pandemic, public health officials have emphasized the importance of protecting seniors through vaccination, social distancing, and other preventive measures. While vaccines have substantially reduced the risk of severe outcomes, breakthrough infections can still occur, highlighting the need for continued vigilance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Senior Center Closures
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
Stay informed and share this notable update with your friends and family. What are your thoughts on these temporary closures? Leave a comment below!