Placerville, CA- El Dorado County health officials and agency partners are closely monitoring the outbreak of novel Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) that originated in China. As of today, there are no known cases of COVID-19 in El Dorado County.
"It’s important to keep in mind that while the situation is evolving, the risk throughout the U.S. is currently low," said El Dorado County Health Officer, Nancy Williams.
COVID-19 is a virus that can cause symptoms similar to seasonal flu, including fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Some people have no symptoms. According to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), while COVID-19 has a high transmission rate, it has a low mortality rate. There have been no confirmed deaths related to COVID-19 in the United States to date. There are several types of Coronavirus; COVID-19 is only one (recently identified) type. Most people who become ill from coronaviruses that circulate in the U.S. recover on their own. Some people, particularly those with underlying health problems, the elderly or those with severe symptoms, may require more intensive medical care.
"We believe coronavirus is very similar to seasonal flu. The best way to protect yourself and others from any virus, including seasonal flu and coronaviruses, is to use good hygiene and to stay away from others who are sick," said Dr. Williams. "Now is the time to establish these habits, if you have not already, that can help you avoid getting sick." Community members can incorporate the following specific preventive steps into their daily routines:
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water
- Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve when you cough or sneeze
- Stay home from work and school if you’re sick
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipes
- If you’re sick enough to seek medical care and think you have any respiratory illness, including COVID-19, be sure to alert the medical facility before arriving and follow directives to avoid exposing others
El Dorado County Public Health and agency partners are continuing to actively monitor reports regarding COVID-19, and taking steps to be prepared to respond if a case is identified in the county. Local partner agencies include the El Dorado County Health and Human Services Agency, the Sheriff’s Office, Office of Emergency Services, Emergency Preparedness and Response, local hospitals, and health care facilities, and others.
Public Health and other departments are participating in frequent statewide conference calls; regularly receiving situation updates and guidance from CDPH; sharing pertinent information and guidance with local healthcare providers, other County agencies and organizations; reviewing local emergency preparedness plans, and sharing resources. Agency partners are also coordinating with CDPH and neighboring counties, and participating in regional meetings to ensure a coordinated response.
To learn more about COVID-19, including the latest information, visit the CDPH website: https://bit.ly/36CjxNg or the Federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html For information locally about COVID-19 Barton Hospital has set up a website; https://www.bartonhealth.org/tahoe/coronavirus-update.aspx