The coronavirus can attack any immune system, but the elderly, disabled and chronically ill are the most vulnerable.

The pandemic is causing nursing homes statewide to take precautionary measures.

"This is one of the most intense infectious control or infectious disease outbreaks I've ever seen,” said Dr. David Heisig, the PACE CNY medical director, a program with Loretto Health and Rehabilitation.

He says they're restricting visitation in the nursing home and reducing the hours.

"Obviously we would make an exception if someone was dying and family members had to be near there,” said Heisig. “But, our goal is to keep the infection out of the nursing home."

They're also suspending programs and group outings.

But, Loretto isn't the only organization taking action.

Elderwood facilities and Chemung County nursing homes are discouraging visitors, too.

They're also screening anyone who goes into the buildings, including staff and vendors.

"It's a brief questionnaire as well as a temperature check,” said Michael Youmans, the Chemung County Nursing Facility administrator. “It's four questions. We're asking people to sign in and out as they leave the building. We're just doing this to ensure we're monitoring the situation."

Health officials say they want to stop the spread, but not visitors from seeing their loved ones.

"Technology can actually help,” said Heisig. “There are methods by which tablets can be provided where you can Skype in or remote control and our telehealth folks are working on that. Safety first, but we have to be human, too."

Heisig says this outbreak will be challenging, but proper preparation will help keep many healthy.