Full Notification

DELAWARE COUNTY, IN- The Delaware County Health Department (DCHD) reported Sunday of an additional individual within Delaware County having tested positive through lab testing for SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19 infection, bringing the total to 13 confirmed cases.

The DCHD continues working closely with the local and state officials to ensure that contacts of the patient are identified and that all infection control protocols are being followed.

The most recently confirmed case is a male over the age of 20. No additional information about the patients will be released at this time due to privacy laws. “As expected, our confirmed cases are rising quickly in Indiana; with Indianapolis having been recently identified as an “emerging hot spot” for COVID-19 spread. The information we’re seeing on the confirmed cases show that this is definitely not a virus that is targeting only the elderly as many have been led to believe” stated DCHD Administrator, Jammie Bane.

Instructions:

Human coronaviruses most commonly spread from an infected person to others through:

•Respiratory droplets released into the air by coughing and sneezing; •Close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands; •Touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes before washing your hands; and •Rarely, fecal contamination.

The best way to protect yourself from any respiratory illness, including the flu, is to:

•Wash your hands often w/ soap & water for at least 20 seconds. If soap & water are not available, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer. •Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. •Avoid close contact (within 6 feet) 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.

The Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) provides statewide updates as new information becomes available. Visit the ISDH website at in.gov/coronavirus for the most up-to-date information on COVID-19 in Indiana.

For updated local information: The Delaware County Emergency Management Agency, in collaboration with the Delaware County GIS Department, have created and are maintaining a central location for local updates. Please visit the Delaware County, Indiana Coronavirus Hub at www.dcema.com.