With Coronavirus (CoVID 19) such a hot topic of late, we wanted to see how local officials are responding to the issue.
As of Monday, the County Commissioners had not discussed the matter.
Public Health Nurse Darlynn Williams, as well as Public Health Officer Sean Hill, had more to say on the matter.
Darlynn informed us that if the virus takes off in the local area, the county response would be very similar to an influenza pandemic, including limiting contact with crowds. On an individual case basis, gatherings in the county could be cancelled or postponed.
She also wrote that the elderly population is hit hardest by the virus. From age 60+ the fatality rate is increased greatly. The younger generations can have the illness with mild side effects but transmit it to an elderly person with grave consequences.
Sean tells us that protocols for limiting virus transmission are already in place at Powder River Manor, due to flu and norovirus, which have already been seen in the community. Visitors who show symptoms of illness are encouraged to stay away from visiting the Manor until they no longer show symptoms.
Both Darlynn and Sean told us the single most important factor in preventing viral illnesses such as CoVID-19 is proper hand washing. Viral illnesses can be picked up from inanimate objects as well be transmitted person to person, so proper hand hygiene and proper cleaning and sanitizing of surfaces is vital in keeping a healthy community.
Sean and Darlynn also provided us with a wealth of information about the virus, listed below.
2019 Novel Coronavirus (CoVID19)
Information as of 3/2/20
CoVID19 is a novel coronavirus. The coronavirus belongs to a large group of viruses that include the common cold. A novel virus is one that has not been detected in humans before. Prevention is the best method to maintain positive health and should be the main focus.
CDC recommends preventive actions to help prevent the spread of viral illnesses such as CoVID-19, including:
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick. (Social Distancing)
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and sanitize frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
These are the same preventive measures we recommend during influenza season.
The majority of those infected with CoVID19 have a mild illness. The care is the same as with many other viral illnesses which consist of supportive therapies including staying hydrated and rest. Only 23-32%, whom become ill with CoVID19, develop into a more serious illness.
Call ahead to a healthcare professional if you develop a fever and symptoms of respiratory illness, such as cough or difficulty breathing, and have been in close contact with a person known to have CoVID-19, or if you live in or have recently traveled to an area with ongoing spread. Tell your healthcare professional about your recent travel or contact.
Powder River County Family Clinic can be contacted at 406-436-2651.
If you are planning on traveling to a country or region where there are cases, you may want to reassess the need for travel.
In Montana, local and state public health officials have worked with individuals who have travel history in China during the current outbreak but do not have any current symptoms of concern.
As of Tuesday morning, there are no cases in Montana. An earlier suspected case in Bozeman tested negative for the virus.
For more information or to discuss in person please see the MDPHHS website at https:// dphhs.mt.gov/publichealth/cdepi/diseases/coronavirusmt or contact Darlynn Williams; Powder River Public Health Nurse at 406-436-2297.
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