Thursday afternoon officials with the state health department notified county executive Jeff Huffman that a resident of Tipton County had tested positive for the COVID-19 coronavirus.
The health department will not release identifying information about the patient, but said he/she had recently traveled and has been placed in quarantine. He/she is recovering from a mild course of the illness.
“This is not unexpected. Your local officials have been preparing for and expecting this for weeks,” Huffman said. “We are coordinating with the TDH and the healthcare community to make sure all Tipton County residents are protected.”
Huffman urged the public to remain calm.
“The worst thing we can do during trying times like this is panic. It is important to remember that the vast majority of patients that contract this virus have a mild course of illness and recover quickly.
“If you are ill with respiratory symptoms, it is very important that you call your doctor first. Do not go the emergency department or any doctor’s office without calling first. We all have to work together to make sure our health care community is not overwhelmed with worried but well folks.”
Huffman said officials will continue to closely monitor the evolving situation and will adapt their response as appropriate.
“Over the next several weeks we might all suffer some inconveniences. There might be some other temporary closures of businesses in the community but this will end and we will be stronger as a community.”
He also reiterated the preventative measures to help stay well.
“As I mentioned, do not go to the doctor or the ER without calling first. Keep your hands clean and continue to practice social distancing. If you are feeling bad, stay at home. Keep an eye on our elders. They need to be staying at home as much as possible and we need to support them and keep them safe. People over the age of 65 and those with prior illnesses are at greatest risk so we need to support them.
“Again, I want to emphasize, this was not unexpected. We are prepared and are working closely with the TDH and all agencies of government at all levels to minimize the impact on the residents of Tipton County. That has been and continues to be our primary concern. We will get through this together. Of this I am certain.”
Individuals with specific questions can call the TDH Information line at 877-857-2945 or 731-421-6782.
Author: Echo Day
Echo Day is an award-winning journalist, photographer and designer. She is currently The Leader's managing editor.
