Coronavirus: First Moses Lake case reported, two more in Quincy

GRANT COUNTY — A Moses Lake man has been tested positive for the novel coronavirus, the first confirmed case in that city, according to the Grant County Health District.

A man and a woman from Quincy have also tested positive, bringing the total count of confirmed cases in the county to 11. At least one of the Quincy patients has had close contact with a previous case, bringing the total cases of confirmed community spread to four.

The health district is also reporting the first case of a person age 0-18 who tested positive for the virus. The health district did not attach age ranges to the cases, so it is unclear where that case originated.

“We expect the virus is present throughout our county and are urging residents to protect themselves and their families by limiting their public exposure and exposure to anyone outside of their immediate family,” the health district wrote in a statement.

The health district is urging those at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 to shelter in place, meaning to stay at home and out of public spaces, limiting visitors to those who are essential, and to ask for assistance from friends and family to run necessary errands.

“In addition to staying at least 6 ft away from others, if you must go out in public, it is now appropriate and recommended to cover your mouth and nose with some type of face mask,” the health district wrote.

“Homemade fabric masks, bandannas and handkerchiefs are acceptable, and can protect you from exposure to respiratory droplets,” the statement continues. “Medical grade masks should be saved for front line healthcare workers, as supplies are critically low.”

However, going outdoors and activities such as walking, hiking and biking are encouraged, as long as six-feet is maintained from other people.