North Central Health District

North Central Health District confirms additional local cases of COVID-19

Posted March 19, 2020 by Michael Hokanson

District’s Second and Third Cases Located in Macon-Bibb and Peach Counties

North Central Health District (NCHD) Epidemiologists confirmed two additional cases of COVID-19 within the 13-county district.

One case involves a resident of Macon-Bibb County. The individual is currently hospitalized and receiving treatment. The individual has no travel history, and the source of exposure is unknown at this time.

The other confirmed positive is a resident of Peach County. The individual is currently hospitalized, and also has no travel history.

NCHD is working to identify the sources of exposure and any contacts that may have been exposed while the individuals were infectious. People identified as having been potentially exposed will be contacted directly by a public health epidemiologist and monitored for respiratory symptoms.

NCHD has confirmed three total cases of COVID-19 throughout the 13-county district in Central Georgia. The first was identified March 18 involving a resident of Houston County. The number of cases may increase as the situation evolves.

COVID-19 is spread by an infected person’s coughs and sneezes or close contact with an infected individual. Symptoms appear within two to 14 days after exposure and can include fever, cough and shortness of breath. The best way to protect against COVID-19 is to practice germ prevention:

• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water a not available, us an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Avoid touching your nose, eyes and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are ill.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough and sneeze with a tissue, then dispose of the tissue. If a tissue is not available, use the inside of your elbow to cover yourself.
• Regularly clean and disinfect high-touch objects and surfaces.

Older adults and people with existing medical conditions should take extra precautions to avoid coming into contact with anyone with is sick with any type of illness. These at-risk groups should avoid gatherings and crowded locations.

Healthcare facilities are working with the Georgia Public Health Laboratory and private labs to process tests. NCHD’s 13 county health departments do not offer testing at this time. If you have symptoms of COVID-19, call your healthcare provider before visiting the location. 

For more information about the COVID-19, including cases numbers and guidance, visit NCHD52.org/coronavirus, or use the Georgia COVID-19 Hotline by calling 844-442-2681.