April 26, 2020
Media Contact: Robert Parker, public information officer, Western Region, robert.parker@vdh.virginia.gov or Breanne Forbes Hubbard, population health manager, Breanne.forbes-hubbard@vdh.virginia.gov, 276-759-8297
Mount Rogers Health District Announces First Case of COVID-19 in Grayson County
(MARION, Virginia) – Mount Rogers Health District announces the first case of COVID-19 in Grayson County. This case will be reflected on the Virginia Department of Health website this week.
“We continue to see new cases of COVID-19 throughout our area, and now we have our first case in Grayson County. There is community transmission throughout Mount Rogers Health District, including the Twin County community. Everyone should stay home and only go out for essential needs as rarely as possible,” insists Karen Shelton MD, Director, Mount Rogers Health District. “Southwest Virginia is not immune to COVID-19. We all have a responsibility to keep each other safe. If you have to go out for critical things like grocery shopping or medical care, wear a cloth face covering and stay at least six feet away from others. Wash your hands and clean surfaces often. These personal precautions apply to all of us – stay home!”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends everyone wear cloth face coverings when out in public in conditions that make social distancing difficult. There is growing evidence that people can spread COVID-19 even if they never develop symptoms or before their symptoms start. Even so, the CDC believes that people are most contagious when they have symptoms. Everyone should limit their exposure by staying home.
Older adults, especially those 65 and older, and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions may be at higher risk for more severe complications from COVID-19. Even if you do not fit those criteria, you can help reduce the risk for those who are most vulnerable by taking precautions.
Many people with COVID-19 develop mild illness and can isolate at home. The most common symptoms are fever, cough and shortness of breath. Other common symptoms include fatigue, decreased appetite and muscle or body aches. Not everyone with COVID-19 will have all symptoms, and a fever might not be present. If you feel your symptoms are worsening, seek medical care by calling your primary care provider, urgent care, or 911.
Individuals, communities, businesses and healthcare organizations all play an important role in slowing the spread of COVID-19. Do your part to STOP the spread by taking everyday precautions, including staying at home as much as possible, avoiding close contact with others, covering your coughs and sneezes, and cleaning and disinfecting surfaces
For the most up to date information on COVID-19 in Virginia, visit http://www.vdh.virginia.gov/coronavirus.
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