North Central District Health Department announces first positive case of COVID-19

LEWISTON -- Public Health-North Central District (PH-INCD) has confirmed the first positive case of in an adult under the age of 60 in Nez Perce County.

PH-INCD said, the patient's healthcare provider acted appropriately with ruling out influenza, discussing exposure risk and appropriately determining that a COVID-19 test was necessary. Clinical specimens were then collected and sent to a commercial laboratory, where laboratory testing indicated infection with COVID-19.

In a telephone press conference, they the patient was recovering at home. Epidemiologists with PH-INCD will work to determine reasonable risk criteria for locations visited by this patient and any close contacts of that individual who were possibly exposed. If other people are found to have possibly been exposed, public health officials will provide guidance to them and will monitor them closely for symptoms.

Additional case specific information about this individual is confidential and will not be released.

"We know the novel Coronavirus is causing concern and uncertainty in our communities. There are personal actions you can take to stay healthy," said Carol Moehrle, Director.

These actions include:

• Avoid non-essential travel if possible.
• Stay at home when sick.
• Cover nose and mouth with a tissue or a sleeve when if coughing or sneezing.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs using a disinfecting solution.
• Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub with at least 60 percent alcohol.

PH-INCD, in collaboration with key stakeholders, is monitoring the rapidly changing COVID-19 situation very closely both domestically and internationally. They are working with hospitals, healthcare providers, county emergency managers, first responders, schools and local and state governments. They have taken many steps to prepare their agencies for this and feel confident in their efforts to respond.

It is currently flu and respiratory illness season, and flu activity is still high and expected to continue for a number of weeks. Public health officials recommend taking everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus. In order to slow the spread of the virus, the general public should refer to the updated guidance on mass gatherings. Please visit www.cdc.gov for additional information on mass gatherings.

For more information about the novel coronavirus, please visit www.idahopublichealth.com or https://coronavirus.idaho.gov/ or call our Public Health Hotline at 1-866-736-6632.