San Juan County confirms first COVID-19 case, prohibits groups over 10
Mar 27, 2020, 11:34 AM
San Juan County has joined other counties in the state to implement prohibitions on dine-in services and large gatherings. (Image credit: Getty Images)
(Image credit: Getty Images)
SAN JUAN COUNTY, Utah — San Juan County confirmed its first COVID-19 case Friday, reporting a male under the age of 65 contracted the virus. Health officials did not release any other details, citing privacy laws.
Immediately following the confirmed case of COVID-19, officials began enforcing prohibitions in the San Juan County. This comes two weeks after county leaders initially proclaimed a state of emergency March 13.
In a statement, the county said it’s choosing to implement these recommendations after seeing other communities reduce mortality compared to communities who did not.
Officials announced they will effectively prohibit gatherings of more than 10 people and leisure travel. These prohibitions apply to camping trips and other recreational activities.
However, the county says the order does not discourage outdoor activities with family or groups of fewer than 10.
The county also announced other prohibitions, following other recommendations enacted by other counties. These include closing dine-in services, restricting visitors at retirement homes, avoiding shopping trips (unless essential) and encouraging employees who can to work from home.
The only exception to the 10 person gathering prohibition is the case of grocery stores, according to a press release sent out from San Juan County.
“We continue to expect and prepare for additional cases of COVID-19 in our community,” according to a statement from San Juan County. “[San Juan Public Health] and [Utah Navajo Health System] will continue to provide regular updates.”
How To Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 Coronavirus
COVID-19 coronavirus is transmitted from person to person. It is a virus that is similar to the common cold and the flu. So, to prevent it from spreading:
- Wash hands frequently and thoroughly, with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds.
- Don’t touch your face.
- Keep children and those with compromised immune systems away from someone who is coughing or sneezing (in this instance, at least six feet)
- If there is an outbreak near you, practice social distancing (stay at home, instead of going to the movies, sports events, or other activities.)
- Get a flu shot.
Local resources
State of Utah: https://coronavirus.utah.gov/
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Utah Coronavirus Information Line – 1-800-456-7707
National Resources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Commonly asked questions, World Health Organization
