Keeley Butler
Contributing Writer
Gov. Andy Beshear explained in a press release Thursday, Feb. 27, the efforts being made to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 from affecting Kentucky.
Coronavirus disease 2019, or COVID-19, was first detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China, and has infected and killed more than 78,100 and 2,710 people there, respectively. This respiratory illness has reached 57 countries according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the first case of the disease in the United States was reported on Jan. 21.
Beshear confirmed that no cases of COVID-19 have been reported in Kentucky. However, he said officials are working to prepare for and prevent its possible arrival in the commonwealth.
“It’s important for the public to know that even though Kentuckians are at low risk for this virus, our state and local health experts have been working hard to ensure the public is educated and that reports of patients that meet criteria for COVID-19 are being properly tested and treated to reduce potential harm,” Beshear said.
Eric Friedlander, the acting secretary for the Cabinet of Health and Family Services, said a website has been developed specifically for Kentuckians concerning COVID-19. The website, kycovid19.ky.gov, is a resource to provide local health departments, clinicians and the general public with updated information regarding the disease.
“While there is a low immediate health risk, we know that because Kentucky is part of the global health community, we may see positive cases here,” Friedlander said. “I am proud that our local and state health experts are prepared to respond quickly, calmly and thoroughly.”
According to the press release, those who have traveled to or have been in contact with someone who has traveled to China are urged to contact their local health department.
Steven Stack, Department for Public Health commissioner, said the Kentucky Department for Public Health is actively surveilling the status of the disease in Kentucky and affirmed that there are plans in place if COVID-19 were to reach the commonwealth.
“We understand that some people are worried about this virus and how it may impact Kentuckians,” Stack said. “Kentucky has a strong disease surveillance system in place that includes partnerships with hospital and clinic systems as well as local health departments and we are committed to this mission of protecting the health and safety of all Kentuckians.”
As for protecting yourself from COVID-19, the press release suggested getting a flu shot, washing your hands with soap and water, avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands, avoiding contact with sick people and other methods suggested during flu season.
According to the Department of Public Health, the general public should “follow the general respiratory illness and flu prevention tips that are crucial in preventing viral exposure and the spread of germs.”
Beshear gave the same advice, urging people to get flu shots, stay home if feeling unwell and practice good hygiene.
