COVID-19 is a new virus that currently has no vaccine and no specific treatment. Since it is a new virus, everyone is susceptible to the disease. You could be infected but show no symptoms and pass it to someone else.
As of March 16, there were 30 identified cases of coronavirus and two deaths in Indiana. There are currently no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Spencer County; the closest case is in Floyd County. However, the Spencer County Health Department, along with schools and community partners, are preparing for when a case comes.
Disruption of normal activities must take place to slow the transmission of COVID-19.
Individuals of Spencer County should:
• Stay home and limit contact with groups of people. No groups greater than 10 people.
• Practice social distancing (stay six feet apart).
• Mass gatherings should be postponed.
• Avoid unnecessary travel, shopping and social visits.
• Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds; if hand-washing is unavailable, use hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol).
• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Sanitize surfaces and objects frequently.
• Avoid handshakes and “high-fives” to prevent the transmission of COVID-19.
• Persons ages 60 and older with a serious health condition (heart or lung disease) or persons with immune problems are considered at higher risk.
If you are sick:
• STAY HOME unless you require medical attention; not everyone will be tested.
• If you must seek medical attention, CALL your physician or the healthcare facility before you visit the office.
• Distance yourself away from your family in another room of your home.
• Be prepared to self-quarantine for 14 days as directed.
Required action of county employers:
• If employees are ill with fever, cough, or shortness of breath, send the health department an email at khay@spencercountyhealth.com.
• Establish a communication tree with your office staff.
For the most up-to-date information, follow the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) websites, cdc.gov and isdh.in.gov.
