• By Todd Luck
  • Posted Tuesday, March 3, 2020

Forsyth County Department of Public Health monitoring coronavirus situation

Forsyth County Department of Public Health is working with state, federal and local partners to prepare for any future potential cases of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in Forsyth County.

Today there was an announcement of someone who tested positive for COVID-19 in Wake County. The person is in isolation at home and is doing well. This person traveled to the State of Washington and was exposed at a long-term care facility where there is currently a COVID-19 outbreak. Wake County health department officials are identifying close contacts to monitor symptoms and contain any potential spread.

This is an isolated case, and COVID-19 is currently not widespread in North Carolina. There are no identified cases in Forsyth County and there is currently low risk of exposure to the virus in this area, but local health officials are monitoring the situation closely.

The Forsyth County Department of Public Health is working with the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), other local health departments and health care providers as well as community partners, including the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Emergency Management Office, to prepare for any future potential local cases.

The NCDHHS suggests residents should take the following standard precautions to help protect themselves and others from this respiratory illness:

  • Wash hands frequently with soap and water, and for at least 20 seconds each time.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are ill.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
  • Do not reuse tissue after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose.
  • Clean and disinfect surfaces that are frequently touched.
  • Have a plan in case you need to miss work or other responsibilities due to personal illness or to care for a sick family member.
  • For the most up-to-date information, visit the CDC at cdc.gov/coronavirus and North Carolina resources can be found on the Division of Public Health website at ncdhhs.gov/coronavirus.

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