Touch decreases cortisol levels, a hormone produced in response to stress. It decreases blood pressure, and it lowers a heart rate. It releases oxytocin, a hormone associated with connection and empathy.
The pandemic was later in getting to rural areas, but when it did, it found a vulnerable population that was sicker, older and has less access to health care, several reports have noted.
Cabinet for Health and Family Services Inspector General Adam Mather encouraged potential visitors to get vaccinated, and said those who haven't been will be required to have a negative test within 72 hours of the visit.
