Released by the Florida Health Department ….
THE WASHINGTON COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES POSITIVE COVID-19 CASE
Washington County— The Washington County Health Department (WCHD) announces a positive case of 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Washington County. The individual is a 53 year old male with no known history of international travel. He is isolated and seeking appropriate medical care. He will remain isolated until cleared by public health officials. All contacts have been asked to self-isolate for the next 14 days and are being monitored.
Karen Johnson, Washington County Health Officer stated, “We are working closely with the patient, close contacts and healthcare providers to determine what additional COVID-19 testing may be required. We are also coordinating with local and state officials to ensure proper precautions are being taken to prevent the spread of the virus. I want to stress that social distancing is key to protect those who are most at risk – individuals age 65 and older and those with underlying medical conditions.”
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COVID-19 can spread from person to person through small droplets from the nose or mouth, including when an individual coughs or sneezes. These droplets may land on objects and surfaces. Other people may contract COVID-19 by touching these objects or surfaces, then touching their eyes, nose or mouth.
Symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, cough and shortness of breath. Symptoms may appear in as few as two days or as many as 14 days following exposure. Most people recover from the COVID-19 without needing special treatment. The elderly and those with underlying medical problems like high blood pressure, heart problems and diabetes, are more likely to develop serious illness.
There is currently no vaccine to prevent COVID-19. The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. As a reminder, the Department always recommends everyday preventive actions to help impede the spread of respiratory diseases, including:
• Avoiding close contact with people who are sick
• Staying home when you are sick and avoiding contact with persons in poor health
• Avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hand;
• Covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then disposing of the tissue
• Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol
• Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty