First case of COVID-19 confirmed in Latah County, second in Idaho County

LEWISTON - Public Health -Idaho North Central District (PH-INCD) has confirmed the first case of COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) in Latah County and a second in Idaho County.

As of Wednesday, there are now 12 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in north central Idaho. The investigation into this new Latah County case is in the preliminary stages. The individual is in their 60's, was not hospitalized and is recovering at home. The case appears to be travel related.

The individual in Idaho County is in their 40's, was not hospitalized and is recovering at home.

Epidemiologists with PH-INCD will work to determine reasonable risk criteria for locations visited by the patients and investigate any close contacts. If other people are found to have been exposed, public health officials will provide guidance to them and will monitor them closely for symptoms.

Additional case-specific information about these individuals is confidential and will not be released.

To stay healthy and slow the spread of COVID-19, there are simple actions people can all take. These actions include:

• Staying home if you are sick
• Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue or your sleeve when you cough or sneeze.
• Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
• Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs using a disinfecting solution.
• Washing your 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.
• Avoiding non-essential travel if possible.

Idaho Health and Welfare is also running a hotline for people feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or distress because of COVID-19. That hotline is available 24/7 at 888-330-3010.

For current information regarding ongoing confirmed cases, their website will be updated daily at 3 p.m. Pacific Time Monday through Friday.

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