QUINCY, Illinois (FROM ADAMS COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT) -- On April, 3, 2020, The Adams County Health Department announced a new case of COVID-19 in Adams County. The individual is a male in his 20’s and is currently recovering in Blessing Hospital. Public health officials have started a contact investigation to understand what contacts the individual had prior to the diagnosis and will notify close contacts as they are identified through this investigation.  The initial investigation indicates that this is community acquired.

Blessing Hospital has been following CDC guidelines and protocols to take the proper precautions including PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) to care for all suspected COVID patients.

It is important to follow simple daily steps to stop the spread of illness. The CDC advises the public to follow these tips to help prevent respiratory illnesses:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick with respiratory symptoms.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with your elbow or a tissue and immediately discard.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
  • If you have not already, get a flu shot and if you are eligible, pneumonia shot. Make sure all of your vaccinations are up to date.

Measures are being developed to slow the spread of illness in Illinois. IDPH and local health departments have implemented heightened surveillance to identify and test patients most likely to have COVID-19. Public health experts are communicating with and educating health care providers and other public health partners about the current situation.

Adams County residents with questions or concerns are encouraged to visit our Facebook page, or call the COVID-19 Hotline (217-277-3504). For general questions about COVID-19, call the Illinois Department of Public Health COVID-19 Hotline 1-800-889-3931 or email: DPH.SICK@ILLINOIS.GOV.

 

For additional media questions contact:

Adams County Health Department Public Information Officer                                                                      
217.277.2215