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In barely more than a week, Clark County has its third confirmed case of coronavirus (COVID-19), according to a press release from the Clark County Health Department issued Monday morning.

The case involves a 33-year-old male.

Additional details about the person cannot be provided because of medical privacy laws.

The first person in Clark County was a 49-year-old man on March 15. The second was a 27-year-old woman three days later.

“Both of those patients are progressing well, and they are at home, isolated,” Clark County Public Health Director Becky Kissick said. “The third is also self-isolated.”

 

 

In his press conference Sunday, Gov. Andy Beshear announced 16 new cases of the coronavirus in Kentucky, bringing the total to 103.

“Health officials are working with the Kentucky Department for Public Health to identify and speak with all those who may have come in close contact with the person while they were contagious,” according to the release. “These individuals will be monitored for fever and respiratory symptoms.”

According to Kissick, after notification of a case of COVID-19, like any other reportable disease, health department epidemiology staff interviews the “case,” which includes identification of individuals that the case was in contact with during the period in which the case was infectious (able to passes the virus to others).

Health Department staff then interview each contact to assess level of exposure, presence of any signs and symptoms, and to provide instructions, which may include recommendations for isolation (if sick with symptoms) or quarantine (exposed but well).

“At this time, it is important that everyone follow the recommendations of Gov. Andy Beshear and Public Health Commissioner Dr. Stephen Stack to reduce the spread of COVID-19,” Kissick said in the release.

The Health Department reminds that the best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed and continues to reinforce the following guidelines:

— Avoid community gatherings, no matter how small.

— Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

— Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

— Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

— Stay home when you are sick.

— Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

— Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

Yesterday, Beshear announced two new actions in the fight against COVID-19.

First, as of 8 p.m. today, non-essential retail businesses are to close. This does not include grocery stores, pharmacy, drug stores, gas stations or auto repair/parts.

Non-essential retail businesses can provide delivery and curb-side service but people cannot go into the stores.

Secondly, as of today, the governor is mandating that no elective procedures can be performed.

Senior adults and those with chronic health conditions are at higher risk for complications of COVID-19.

The CDC recommends the following for people over the age of 60 and anyone with

heart, lung or kidney disease, cancer or diabetes:

— Stay at home as much as possible.

— Make sure you have access to medications and supplies in case you are advised to stay home.

— When you got out in public, keep away from others who are sick, limit close contact and wash your hands often.

— Avoid crowds.

A state hotline 1.800.722.5725 is available to help Kentuckians who have questions or need help.

To stay current on the latest information, visit the state’s website at kycovid19.ky.gov and https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/index.html. Be sure to find us on Facebook at Clark County Health Department.