On Sunday, the Hamilton County Health Department, in consultation with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH), confirmed the first case of novel coronavirus in a Hamilton County resident. The patient is currently hospitalized.
In a statement issued to the media, the Hamilton County Health Department stated they would not provide further information about the person or identify the hospital.
The county is working closely with the state health department to identify any close contacts of the patient who might have been exposed to ensure that appropriate precautions are taken in accordance with the latest CDC guidelines.
At this time, the risk to the public is believed to be low.
The Hamilton County Health Department will continue to work with CDC, ISDH, and county partners to safeguard the residents of Hamilton County. These efforts include conducting risk assessments with partners, educating the public, and providing recommendations on mitigation strategies.
Hamilton County Health Officer Dr. Charles Harris said, “We have known COVID-19 would arrive in Hamilton County eventually. We were fortunate to have additional time to prepare for our first case. We will continue to work with our federal, state and local partners to mitigate and respond to COVID-19.”
Diagnosing and treating coronavirus
In order for doctors to diagnose coronavirus (COVID-19) they will likely take samples, including a sample of saliva (sputum), a nasal swab and a throat swab, to send for testing.
If an individual is diagnosed with coronavirus, there is no antiviral medication recommended to treat COVID-19. Treatment is directed at relieving symptoms and may include:
- Pain relievers
- Cough syrup or medication
- Rest
- Fluids
Symptoms can range from a fever, sore throat, coughing, to serious respiratory tract infections.
If your doctor thinks you can be treated at home, he or she may give you special instructions, such as to isolate yourself as much as possible from family while you’re sick and to stay home for a period of time. In some cases, you may need to be treated in the hospital.
Coronavirus can progress to bronchitis or even pneumonia, and some people need supplemental oxygen to help them breathe and in extreme cases may need to be placed on a mechanical respirator.
Health officials are still uncertain how long a person with coronavirus remains contagious.