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Positive Case of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Gregg County

Positive Case of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Gregg County

March 10, 2020

The Northeast Texas Public Health District has identified a positive case of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Gregg County. The test result was confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) within their testing facilities in Atlanta, Georgia. The patient has traveled within the continental United States, has mild illness, and has continued self-isolation in their home. The immediate risk of transmission in Gregg County remains low, as there is no evidence of community spread at this time. Gregg County residents are reminded to take the same measures that are recommended annually to prevent the spread of the flu and other respiratory viruses. These include:

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Stay home when you are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

Northeast Texas Public Health District News Release

Health officials from throughout Gregg County and the East Texas region are working together to coordinate response for the potential arrival of coronavirus. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has issued health alerts regarding a novel coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, which was first detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China, and has spread to other parts of the world including the United States. There are currently no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Gregg County and the threat to East Texas remains low. However, local health officials encourage residents to take precautions to avoid exposure and spread of viruses.

A news conference has been scheduled for Noon, Tues., March 10 at the Gregg County Courthouse, 101 E. Methvin St. The purpose of the news conference is to discuss emergency preparation steps being taken at the local level and to encourage citizens to take preventative actions. Participants in the news conference will include representatives from the Gregg County Health Department, Northeast Texas Public Health District, local municipalities, and hospitals. The Gregg County Health Department is the primary local contact at 903-237-2620.

According to the CDC, the virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person between people who are in close contact with another (within about 6 feet) and through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. As such, please remember these key steps for preventing the spread of respiratory illnesses:

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Stay home when you are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

Source – City of Longview

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