Crater Health District Confirms First Case of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Hopewell

March 27, 2020

Media Contact: Tara Rose, Tara.Rose@vdh.virginia.gov

Crater Health District Confirms First Case of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Hopewell

(Hopewell, Virginia)- The Crater Health District announced today a Hopewell resident has tested positive for coronavirus 19 (COVID-19).   This marks the first positive COVID-19 case in the city of Hopewell.  The male in his 30s had recently traveled to New York. The individual is isolated at home and monitoring his health.

“The health district is investigating this case and will identify any close contacts of this resident who may require testing or monitoring for symptoms of COVID-19,” said Crater Health District Director Alton Hart, Jr., MD, MPH. “It is critical that people continue to follow public health guidelines to prevent the spread and limit the impact of this virus.”

COVID-19 spreads primarily through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Most patients with COVID-19 have mild to moderate symptoms. However, in a small proportion of patients, COVID-19 can lead to more severe illness, including death, particularly among those who are older or those who have chronic medical conditions. Symptoms include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Symptoms appear within 14 days after exposure to an infectious person.

To lower the risk from spreading respiratory germs, including COVID-19, the Virginia Department of Health encourages the following effective behaviors:

  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer only if soap and water are not available.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
  • Avoid contact with sick people.
  • Practice social distancing. Maintain at least six feet of space between yourself and other individuals when out in public.
  • Avoid crowds of more than 10 people.

The Crater Health District has activated a coronavirus call center, which will be staffed Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. to address questions from residents. Community members may call 804-862-8989.  The Virginia Department of Health has also activated a public information line, 877-ASK-VDH3, which is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Information is available on the following websites: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus or www.vdh.virginia.gov/corona/virus

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NOTE: This case is not included on the statewide count on the VDH website. Cases are updated daily at www.vdh.virginia.gov/coronavirus, with the numbers as of 5 p.m. the evening before.