Washington County Sees Jump in COVID-19 Cases

The Washington County Health Department announced that multiple residents have tested positive for COVID-19 in Washington County.

According to WCHD, a male healthcare worker in his 40s has tested positive for the virus early this week. He is currently isolated at home and is doing well.

In addition to that case, two additional people subsequently tested positive. The two new cases, a male in his 30s and a female in her 70s, are linked to one another. The male is hospitalized and stable, and the female is doing well at home.  

County health officials are trying to identify anyone who may have had contact with the people infected with the virus. Quarantine orders are being given appropriately, and officials are expecting an increase in the number of cases in the coming weeks.

WCHD is also identifying and contacting any close contacts that are connected to this case. This is the county’s third positive lab-confirmed case, and a total of 39 negative lab tests on county residents have been reported to the health department. 

Illinois Department of Public Health to advise that not all people with respiratory illness needs to be tested. Also, people may not have been tested and still have the virus.

Anyone who shows symptoms is asked to, if possible, treat them from home. If medical care is required, call a healthcare provider for additional advice. 

The health department asks that anyone contacted by a local public health official respond quickly to help contain the spread of the virus.

Preventative measures like social distancing, hand hygiene and wearing masks are also good practices to protect friends and loved ones.