According to the Southern Seven Health Department, a case of the virus that was announced Tuesday as the first in Pulaski County has been investigated further, and the Illinois Department of Public Health learned that the patient has dual residency, with their other home outside of the area. Late Tuesday, health officials decided to move the case and assign it to the other county, which was not identified in the local release.
This means that the number of cases in Pulaski County has returned to zero. Southern Seven Health Department says the woman in her 60s is not currently in the area, and they apologized for any confusion.
Currently, the only confirmed cases of the virus in extreme southern Illinois are two people in Massac County.
Original Story from Tuesday:
The Southern Seven Health Department has confirmed the first case of COVID-19 in Pulaski County.
Officials say a woman in her 60's has been notified and is self isolating.
So far in southern Illinois there have three confirmed cases, with two of those being in Massac County.
Officials say that residents can expect the number to continue rising as more tests become available.
The chance of contracting the virus can be dramatically reduced by adhering to the following guidelines:
• Maintain a social separation distance of 6 feet.
• Do not touch your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. You can also use the bend of your elbow.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
Symptoms of the virus are similar to other common respiratory illnesses. Anyone with a fever, cough, or shortness of breath should contact their primary care provider for further guidance.
The following hotlines are available to answer any questions regarding COVID-19 in the Southern Seven region.
• Massac Memorial Hospital 1-618-638-1344 (7am-7pm line)
• Southern Illinois Healthcare 1-844-988-7800 (24-hour line)
• St. Francis Medical Center 1-573-331-4200 (7am-5pm line)
• Baptist Health 1-888-227-8478 (24-hour line)
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