Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

The Martin-Tyrrell-Washington District Health Department was notified on Monday, April 13, 2020 that Tyrrell County has a positive case of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Public health officials are currently investigating this case and following up with individuals who may have been exposed. The patient is currently receiving treatment outside of the county, according to the Martin-Tyrrell-Washington District Health Department, which states it is taking action to further limit the spread of the virus in the county.

Community spread, meaning the source of infection is unknown, has been occurring in several nearby counties. “That makes it absolutely essential that we follow social distancing guidelines,” states a release from MTWDHD, whose health director Wes Gray emphasizes the following practices that everyone can do to help prevent the spread of COVID-19:

– Practice social distancing, especially if in the high-risk population (65 years and older and people with underlying health conditions or a compromised immune system).

– Practice good hygiene, including washing hands with soap and water for 20 seconds, using hand sanitizer, avoid shaking hands, covering coughs and staying away from others if sick.

– Avoid smoking and vaping. Smoking or vaping irritates the respiratory system, making it easier to develop infections. Sharing cigarettes or electronic vaping devices can contribute to spread of the virus.

– Avoid panic. Most COVID-19 cases are mild and patients have been making full recoveries. “Panic only adds more stress to the healthcare system and prevents us from taking care of ourselves and our fellow residents,” states the release.

Visit www.mtwdistricthealth.org for more information.

READ ABOUT MORE NEWS HERE.

RECENT HEADLINES:

Federal lawsuit filed by non-resident property owners

New manager named for three northeastern NC refuges