HAGERSTOWN, MD (March 22, 2020) – The Washington County Joint Information Center (JIC) announces the second confirmed case of 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in Washington County. The case is a male in his 30’s who is in good condition with mild symptoms and is recovering at home. The Washington County Health Department is investigating this case with the help of the Maryland Department of Health. Communicable Disease nurses will identify contacts and advise them of any necessary actions to take. Information will be released as soon as possible if any risk to the public is identified.
The JIC announced the first coronavirus (COVID-19) case at a press conference held Saturday, March 21, 2020. A woman in her 50’s who is in good condition with mild symptoms and is recovering at home.
The health risk from COVID-19 to the general public in Washington County, MD remains low at this time, but everyone is strongly urged to engage in practices that reduce the risk of spread.
It is likely there will be more cases reported in Washington County, MD in the coming days and weeks. Moving forward, a COVID-19 case count for Washington County, MD will be included in the daily briefing.
STAY INFORMED
The coronavirus that causes COVID-19 can cause mild to more severe respiratory illness. Symptoms include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Symptoms appear within 14 days of being exposed to an infectious person. COVID-19 spreads primarily through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. If symptoms develop, please contact your health care provider and describe the situation.
To lower the risk of transmission, the Health Department recommends the following:
- Avoid non-essential travel and public gatherings, especially if you are an individual who is at increased risk for severe illness, including pregnant women, older adults and persons of any age with underlying health conditions.
- Avoid travel to all areas where there are outbreaks of COVID-19.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer only if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
- If you are mildly sick with a fever, stay home except to get medical care.
- Those with high risk factors and who have fever or new or worsening cough, should consider contacting their providers earlier when they are sick. Call ahead to let them know of your symptoms.
This is not a time to fear but to be aware, prepared, and informed. Please do not accept or share information unless it is from a credible source. Please follow https://www.washco-md.net/coronavirus-info/ for updates related to COVID-19 in Washington County, Maryland.
For additional information, please contact the Washington County Joint Information Center at 240-313-2380 or [email protected].
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