The Montgomery County Health Department, in consultation with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Indiana State Department of Health, has confirmed the first case of novel coronavirus in a Montgomery County resident. The adult patient is currently hospitalized in another county.
The county is working closely with the Indiana State Department of Health to identify any close contacts of the patient who might have been exposed to ensure that appropriate precautions are taken in accordance with the latest CDC guidance. At this time, the risk to the public is believed to be low. The Montgomery County Health Department will notify those who have had direct contact with the individual once they are identified.
“Like many cities and counties in Indiana, we knew we would soon identify a patient in our community infected with the COVID-19 virus,” said Dr. Scott Douglas, Montgomery County Health Officer. “This should not trigger alarm but a renewed sense of responsibility for all of us to do what we can to limit the spread of this infection to our neighbors, friends, family and co-workers. Working as a community, with concern for each other, we can limit the number of people who become infected.”
No further details are available at the time this release was distributed.
Symptoms of novel coronavirus include fever, cough and shortness of breath. Like influenza, 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; and
• Rarely, fecal contamination.
The best way to protect yourself from any respiratory illness, including the flu, is to:
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• 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.
For additional information about novel coronavirus, visit www.in.gov/coronavirus.
