KCHD release: Knox coronavirus case ‘exposed overseas'
Health Department hotline added
Dr. Martha Buchanan, senior director at Knox County Heath Department, addresses the media concerning the latest coronavirus COVID-19 information in Knox County.
“While awaiting confirmation of results from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, KCHD and TDH will treat presumptive positive cases as positive and follow CDC guidelines to protect public health and limit the spread of infection,” the release further stated.
“Knox County has been preparing for the possibility of a case of COVID-19 since it was first reported in the United States,” Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs said. “Our Knox County Health Department is coordinating our response efforts and will continue to work to reduce the spread of infection and protect the health of all people in Knox County.”
As for case details, “This person was exposed overseas and is an isolated case. They have been in isolation since they returned and have not required hospitalization,” the release stated. “Per standard public health protocols for infectious disease response, KCHD epidemiologists will work with TDH and follow CDC guidance to contact and monitor anyone who may have been exposed to this isolated case. COVID-19 is not currently widespread in Knox County or Tennessee.
“We understand the concern surrounding COVID-19, but we hope Knox County citizens can take some comfort in the fact that we were expecting a case, and that we routinely utilize extensive plans and national best practice to respond to all reportable infectious diseases in Knox County,” KCHD senior director Dr. Martha Buchanan stated. “The most important thing the public can do is to follow the CDC guidance, which includes the standard hygiene practices we recommend to prevent the spread of flu and other viruses.”
“Per current evidence, while symptoms of COVID-19 can range from mild to severe, the vast majority of cases are mild. Fever and respiratory symptoms, such as coughing and shortness of breath, are some of the common symptoms. Other typical cold symptoms such as runny nose and a sore throat are generally not associated with COVID-19,” the release stated.
The best precautions the public can take are listed as follows:
• Wash your hands regularly
• Stay home if you are sick
• Avoid contact with those who are sick
• Cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze/cough
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
• Get a flu shot if you haven’t already
KCHD has launched a COVID-19 Public Information Line. The hotline number is 865-215-5555 or individuals may call toll-free at 888-288-6022. The information line will be available from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
“Call volume is expected to be high. Callers are urged to be patient if they receive a busy signal and try their call at a later time,” the release stated. “People with concerns about their health should contact their health care providers. Additional information about COVID-19 can be found on KCHD and CDC’s website.”
