WILCOE, WV – A new case of COVID-19 was confirmed by McDowell County Health Department Officials Friday afternoon July 10, 2020, bringing McDowell County to a total of 8 cases so far. This case is being attributed to community spread.
At approximately 2:30 p.m. on Friday, July 10, 2020, the McDowell County Health Department was notified that an eighth McDowell County resident had tested positive for novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).
Health Department Officials say that this individual who tested positive for COVID-19 (coronavirus) contracted it through community spread.
The Health Department Officials continue to work to identify additional individuals who may have had contact with this individual. *If you are identified as a contact to this or any case, we will notify you. If you are identified as an official contact by the Health Department, please follow all guidelines given to you. Following these guidelines helps to protect others and helps to stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
To protect the individual’s privacy, no further information about the case will be released.
McDowell County Health Department will continue to keep the public informed by announcing any additional cases that may arise through local media partners.
The Health Department would like to express that it is important for the community to understand that the identification of additional cases does not change our local strategies for preventing and reducing the spread of the virus. Above all else, please isolate yourself at home if you are sick. Coronavirus symptoms could include fever, cough, shortness of breath, runny nose, nasal congestion, decrease in smell and or taste. And remember to practice social distancing, wear a face covering, avoid large crowds, wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. As well as avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
If an individual is experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19, they can call Tug River Health Association’s hotline at (304) 448-2300 between the hours of 8:00am – 4:30pm Monday – Friday. This line is being operated by a nurse who will ask screening questions to determine if you need testing. Or you may also contact the following numbers: Welch Community Hospital at (304)-436-8659 from 9am to 9pm or (304)-436-8630 outside of those times to inquire about the possibility of being tested; and, Bradshaw Medical at (304)-967-5034 and Yukon Medical at (304)-875-2302.
If you are having a medical emergency, call 9-1-1 and inform the dispatcher that you have symptoms of COVID-19.