Utah County confirms first COVID-19 patient
Mar 17, 2020, 4:50 PM
Microscopic view of Coronavirus, a pathogen that attacks the respiratory tract. Photo: Getty Images
UTAH COUNTY– The Utah County Health Department (UCHD) confirmed its first COVID-19 patient on Thursday, the same day the state revealed a total of 51 cases, ten from out-of-state visitors. The new patient brings the total to 52.
In a press release, Utah County health officials said the patient who tested positive for COVID-19 is a male adult, over the age of 18, and has not been hospitalized.
UCHD believes the patient was exposed to the virus by local transmission in the community.
READ MORE: COVID-19: Your questions, answered by the KSL factchecking team
According to the statement, the patient attended one day of work while symptomatic. UCHD has notified “appropriate locations and individuals of potential exposure,” and has told those affected to quarantine at home.
“Quarantine at home means individuals should not leave home for ANY reason, except when advised by their health care provider to seek medical care in person. They should not go to work, school, or any public place, including stores, malls, theatres, restaurants, or any other retail establishment. They should not visit family or friends or have any visitors at home,” said UCHD.
As recommended by UCHD, those exposed to COVID-19 should frequently wash their hands, avoid touching their face and wipe down commonly used areas and objects often.
If someone in the quarantined household becomes symptomatic, “they should isolate the ill person away from the other members of the household and contact a health care provider,” advised UCHD.
State and local health officials are monitoring those in home quartine.
Symptoms of COVID-19 may include cough, fever over 100° F, or shortness of breath.
Resources for more information:
LOCAL:
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 Links
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Commonly asked questions, World Health Organization
