Seven new local COVID-19 cases

DAYTON–Columbia County is experiencing seven new Coronavirus cases all within the same household, the Public Health Department has asked individuals who came into direct contact to be tested and quarantine for a period of 14 days from last exposure. These individuals are determined through contact tracing being conducted through the local health department.

Public Health Administrator, Martha Lanman reported to the Board of County Commissioners Monday that one of the seven in the household is in the hospital. No other details can be given. All household members are various ages, with no one over sixty. Two additional out of county residents have tested positive from contact with the Columbia County household.

Lanman contends that by following quarantine protocols, the virus can be contained and not spread through the community.

"I feel like it is a contained situation within the family, as long as everybody does the right thing and as long as everybody quarantines, then we can get a handle on it," said Lanman. "If we don't quarantine and have a possibility of it being out there in our community, then that's when we come into problems. I have reported it as an outbreak to the Communicable Disease Investigator as required by our Phase 3 application and have not heard anything more. I will update them today that again, we have two more positives over the weekend but they're out of county and related. Related is a big factor right now."

Columbia County does have a quarantine facility, if needed. Lanman explained that the need could arise if someone cannot for some reason quarantine within their household.

During quarantine, staff from Public Health call to check in with individuals who have tested positive to question them about their symptoms, including to check for possible fever twice per day. They also ask to see if they need anything such as food and medication.

If quarantine is violated, County Prosecutor, Dale Slack said there could be a charge for a gross misdemeanor for violating the governor's quarantine order.

The goal of Public Health, according to Lanman, is education the public which she believes the recent outbreak is helping to do that. She asks community members to cooperate with the quarantine and not have contact with known individuals who are isolating.

There have been 244 tests, with 76 pending and 158 negatives as of Monday, June 22, 2020. The pending tests are required routine tests from Booker Home.

Columbia County recommend all people living in the area follow these guidelines:

-Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue and then throw the tissue in the trash.

-Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

-Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

-Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands,

-Clean and disinfect surfaces that are often touched.

-Take care of your health overall. Staying current with vaccinations, eating well and exercising will help your body stay resilient.

-Stay home. If you feel sick with mild symptoms and do not need to seek medical care, stay home while you recover.

-Stay informed. Consult CDC's travel website for any travel advisories and steps to protect yourself if you plan to travel outside the U. S.