Three New COVID-19 Cases Friday; Five in the County This Week

Effingham County Health Department received notice Friday of three new positive cases of Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19).

A male in his 30’s has had no known contact with a COVID case. A female in her 50’s and a male in his 60’s have had contact with persons testing positive for COVID-19. All three are doing well in isolation.

These additions bring the week’s total to 5 new cases in Effingham County thus far, and 17 cases in all.

Citizens are strongly urged to take steps to minimize risk of contracting COVID-19 by wearing a face covering, washing your hands frequently, maintaining a distance of at least 6 feet, and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces. Also, as we see an increase in the number of cases within the community, it is important to monitor yourself for COVID symptoms. These symptoms include: fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, or diarrhea. If you are exhibiting any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider for further guidance.

Testing is available in the Effingham community for individuals exhibiting symptoms of COVID and for individuals who may not have symptoms but feel they may be at increased risk for contracting COVID disease. Remember, persons may not always exhibit symptoms, and disease spread can be reduced by having early diagnosis and practicing isolation. For information on how to obtain testing, contact the Effingham County Health Department at 217-342-9237 or your healthcare provider.

The public is asked to follow and share trusted sources of information on COVID-19. Follow the CDC, IDPH and ECHD websites and social media accounts for such trusted information.

The number of positive cases in area counties is now:

Coles--173

Shelby--17

Cumberland--12

Jasper--47

Clay--two

Fayette--23

For the record, Scott County reported its first positive COVID case Friday, so each county in the state has had at least one case.

Statewide, 868 positive cases were reported Friday. There were 18 confirmed COVID-related deaths reported statewide on Friday. The percentage of positive cases from tests conducted over the past seven days is still at 2.6%.