Six Positive COVID-19 Cases Reported in Effingham County

Effingham County Health Department today reported six new positive cases of Coronavirus Disease. That includes a female in her 80s, who tested positive for COVID after her death.

A male and two females in their 70s have had contact with persons testing positive for COVID-19. A male and female in their teens have had no known contact with a COVID case. All are doing well in isolation.

Our newsroom has been contacted with reports of a party that might have been where the positive COVID cases involving the teens originated. Karen Feldkamp of the Health Department said she couldn't confirm those reports since they haven't been able to confirm there was a party.

Feldkamp also encouraged those who think they might have been exposed to COVID-19 to phone the Health Department at 342-9237 and get information as to the best practice to get tested. She reminded the tests are "a moment in time" and, if someone gets tested too soon, the test might come back negative.

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.  

Also, we strongly urged citizens 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. It is also still recommended for individual to not congregate in large groups. These precautions should be taken at all times, even if you are traveling.

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.

Please Note: These are the numbers as of 11:00 a.m. today. It is anticipated additional COVID positive cases will be reported today. If that is the case, those numbers will be included in the next case count.