It’s being reported that the Scarborough nursing home where at least 16 residents with COVID-19 have died, had flaws in its infection control protocols designed to detect and reduce outbreaks.

An October 2019 inspection report by the Ministry of Long Term Care found Seven Oaks had failed to follow regulations requiring the home to analyze and track residents’ symptoms that were recorded during daily shifts.

But in a statement, a City of Toronto spokesperson says past deficiencies at Seven Oaks were all addressed prior to the COVID-19 outbreak and were not a factor in the ongoing infections at the home.

Toronto’s Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Eileen de Vila said Wednesday, the situation at Seven Oaks is getting worse.

“I recognize and I appreciate that we are all concerned about those in the Seven Oaks home community,” de Villa lamented.

In addition to the 16 coronavirus related deaths, four other deaths are under investigation.

De Villa also explained there are 45 confirmed cases and 56 probable cases at the facility, where there are a total of 249 residents.

Thirteen staff members have also tested positive for COVID-19.

Meantime, the number of COVID-19 related deaths at Pinecrest Nursing Home in Bobcaygeon has risen to 28. The outbreak there began March 18th and is considered the worst in the country.