McCook, Neb.-Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department (SWNPHD) announced today that a person from SWNPHD’s health district has tested positive for COVID-19.
SWNPHD is working with healthcare providers and DHHS to identify additional people who came into close contact with this person, a male in his 30s from Red Willow County. These people will be self-quarantined and actively monitored twice daily by public health officials for fever and respiratory symptoms.
SWNPHD wants to reassure the public that steps are being taken to protect community members and healthcare workers and to decrease the spread of the illness.
The person testing positive is a male in their thirties in Red Willow County. They are currently self-isolating at home.
The best way to reduce the risk of becoming infected with a respiratory virus, such as COVID-19 or influenza, is to practice good hygiene:
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. When soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching facial areas, such as eyes, nose and mouth.
• Cover coughs and sneezes using a tissue and throw it away immediately after; wash hands after using a tissue to wipe your nose or mouth.
• Clean frequently touched surfaces like handles, counters, and cellphones.
What to do if you think you are sick:
• Self-isolate - Stay at home and limit contact with other members of your household. Most individuals who become ill will have mild to moderate symptoms that can be treated at home with pain and fever reducers like acetaminophen (Tylenol). It is the most helpful to remain at home and avoid spreading the virus to others.
• Household members who live with someone who is suspected to have COVI -19 should self-quarantine, which means staying at home and not having visitors. Limit time spent within 6 feet of the sick person to ten minutes or less and disinfect surfaces frequently.