The state of Kentucky recently identified its first positive coronavirus test.
A Harrison County patient visited Harrison Memorial Hospital in Cynthiana, Kentucky, with flu-like symptoms, according to WDRB. The patient did not qualify for a coronavirus (also called COVID-19) screening and was promptly released.
A few days later, the patient was re-screened. When transferred to the University of Kentucky Hospital, the patient tested positive for COVID-19, according to WKYT.
The staff who interacted with the patient are now in self-quarantine and are expected to stay so for two weeks.
According to WKYT, all UK Hospital patients are being screened for the coronavirus at all points of entry.
While the city of Lexington may have just had its first case, coronavirus is on the rise globally.
As of Wednesday, March 11, the United States has investigated 627 cases of the novel coronavirus, according to the Center for Disease Control. The virus has been reported in 35 different states, with 25 total deaths.
More than 135 cases have been reported in the state of California, and New York is currently addressing 142 reported cases.
As concerns on the spread of this disease continues, so does awareness towards preventative measures.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the best action to take is to wash your hands with an alcohol-based hand cleanser as long as it takes to sing “Happy Birthday” twice.
“Stay home if you feel unwell. If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention and call in advance,” WHO advises.
The Center for Disease Control also adds that it is important to cover the nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, and to avoid touching the eyes, nose or mouth.
