The Pike County Health Department announced today the first positive case of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in Pike County.
The patient is self-isolating at home. No additional
information about the patient will be released due to privacy laws.
“We are continuing to urge residents of Pike County to strictly adhere to Governor Holcomb’s order to stay at home. If you must leave your home for an essential purpose, please adhere to social distancing recommendations from the CDC, wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol- based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available, avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. Stay home if you are sick, we cannot stress this point enough. We must all work together to control the spread of this virus and it is the responsibility of each and every member of our community to do their part”, said Amy Gladish, Public Health Nurse.
Pike County Health Department is working closely with local and state officials to ensure that contacts of the patient are identified and monitored and that all infection control protocols are being followed.
Gov. Eric J. Holcomb issued a public health emergency declaration that calls on state agencies to continue their diligence and cooperation in responding to COVID-19 and ensures that Indiana can seek funding to control the spread of coronavirus. The declaration is posted at www.in.gov The governor has also issued additional steps to protect the public from COVID-19.
Human coronaviruses most commonly spread from an infected person to others through:
*Respiratory droplets released into the air by coughing and sneezing.
*Close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands.
*Touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then
touching your mouth, nose, or eyes
before washing your hands.
*Rarely, fecal contamination.
The best way to protect yourself from any respiratory illness, including the flu is to:
*Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not
available, use and alcohol based sanitizer.
*Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
*Avoid close contact (within 6 feet) with people who are sick.
*Stay home when you are sick.
*Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw tissue in the trash and wash your hands.
*Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
The Indiana State Department of Health will provide COVID-19 updates as new information is available. Visit the ISDH website in.gov/coronavirus for the most up-to-date information on COVID-19 in Indiana.
