By PR County Health Nurse Darlynn Williams
As of 3/30/20 there are no cases of COVID-19 in Powder River County.
The number of positive COVID-19 cases in surrounding counties and states continues to grow and the threat is ever present. It is more important now than ever before to continue to shelter in place. Stay home unless you must leave for supplies, work or to care for family.
Parents – your teens need to stay home with you and connect through their social media or online games. You need to say “no” when they want to get together with friends or any social group. Social distancing means staying away from all people…. Period.
When you are out in public, wash your hands often, stay at least 6 feet away from others and don’t stand and visit. This cannot be stressed enough.
On March 30, Governor Bullock ordered all persons traveling into, out of another State or internationally to self-quarantine for 14 days to slow the spread of any exposures. Please read the entire order and call the Public Health if you have questions.
We all need to do our part to help stop the spread of COVID-19.
If you think you may have COVID-19 and are showing symptoms of fever, dry cough and shortness of breath, contact your healthcare provider by phone. They will determine if a test is needed. If you need tested, this can be done at the Powder River Medical Clinic or at Powder River Public Health. The samples are taken and sent off to the lab and results are returned in 1-3 days.
If you test positive for COVID-19 you will most likely stay at home to recover. Approximately 80% of those who are positive for COVID-19 are able to stay home and self-treat the symptoms. This treatment may consist of acetaminophen to decrease the fever and sore throat, humidification, gargle with salt water, eat clear liquids, a cough prep and plenty of water and rest. You should self-isolate within your house if you live with family. If you live alone, have a friend or family member deliver supplies.
If your symptoms worsen and you are not able to take a full breath or have trouble doing simple tasks without becoming short of breath, call 9-1-1.
Please remember, as with many respiratory illnesses, if you feel unwell please stay away from others as much as possible to prevent the spread of infection. Wash your hands often, limit contact with people and follow guidance from your healthcare providers.
Steps you can take to prevent the flu and the common cold will also help to prevent coronavirus:
Wash hands often with soap and water.
Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if water and soap is not available.
Avoid contact with people who are sick.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
STAY HOME: STAY HEALTHY
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