GCHD asks public to help slow spread of COVID-19
In announcing the death of a Grant County resident due to the COVID-19 virus, Grant County Health District on Sunday said it will continue to follow up with the people who had close contact with the patient.
Theresa Adkinson, GCHD’s administrator, in a press release expressed condolences to the family and friends of the patient, and to the staff of Central Washington Hospital, where the patient received care. Adkinson in the release stated that most individuals who get the virus will recover after mild to moderate symptoms, “However, we all need to take precautions to protect our most vulnerable populations and slow this disease.”
The health district asked the public to heed its advice, as follows.
- People at higher risk of severe illness should stay home and away from large groups of people as much as possible, including public places where there will be close contact with others. People at higher risk include those who: are age 60 or older; have underlying health conditions, including heart disease, respiratory illness and diabetes; have weakened immune systems; are pregnant.
- Workplaces should enact measures that allow people who can work from home to do so.
- Consider postponing events and gatherings, both private and public. If you can’t avoid bringing groups of people together, urge anyone who is sick to not attend; encourage those who are at higher risk for coronavirus to not attend; try to find ways to give people more physical space so that they aren’t in close contact; encourage attendees to maintain good healthy habits, such as frequent hand-washing; clean surfaces frequently. Standard cleaning products are effective against COVID-19.
- GCHD is not recommending closing schools or child care facilities at this time. Closure is not recommended mainly because current evidence indicates young people have a far lower risk of serious illness from this virus than other people.
- Avoid medical settings unless necessary. If you are feeling sick call your doctor’s office first before going in. Even if you are not ill, avoid visiting hospitals, long-term care facilities or nursing homes to the extent possible. If you do need to visit one of these facilities, then limit your time there and keep 6 feet away from other patients. Do not go to the emergency room unless essential. Emergency rooms need to be able to serve those with the most critical needs.
Steps anyone can take:
- Wash hands often and vigorously with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water is not available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, saturating the skin surface and rubbing for at least 20 seconds.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home when you are sick and avoid close contact (less than 6 feet away) with others.
- If you have a cold or cough and need to see a provider, always call first to be sure they know you are coming so their staff can take appropriate precautions.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing.
- Don’t shake hands; bump elbows.
- Use sanitizing wipes or solutions (normal household products work) on frequently touched surfaces and objects at home and at work.
- Take good care of yourself to stay healthy, including adequate sleep and good nutrition.
-Staff report