As of Saturday, March 14, CDPHE and Summit CountyPublic Health have identified two presumptive positive cases of the COVID-19 virus. Results are pending for another 32 people who met the specific criteria for testing, and other cases are being evaluated. All of those patients have been instructed to remain isolated. Seven tests have come back negative.

If you are sick -- regardless of whether you have been directed by your primary-care provider for COVID-19 testing -- stay home and prevent contaminating others. The treatment for most cases of COVID-19 is the exact same as that of the flu or a common cold: Drink lots of fluids, get lots of rest and contact your health-care provider if symptoms worsen. If you have underlying health concerns or are older than 70, contact your health-care provider if you show any symptoms of COVID-19 such as fever, shortness of breath or coughing. 

The best way to prevent contracting the COVID-19 virus or any other illness is to wash your hands with soap and water frequently, sanitize commonly touched surfaces regularly and practice "social distancing" by avoiding being in close proximity with others. The Centers for Disease Control advise that people in public should remain at least six feet away from each other. 

Although the majority of individuals (more than 80 percent) who contract this virus will have mild symptoms, those older than 70 and especially those with underlying health conditions, are more likely to experience severe illness that could be fatal. So far, across the state, greater than 90 percent of those tested are negative for COVID-19 and positive for the common cold or the flu.

These are challenging times. It is important for people to be vigilant. Many may feel anxiety,
fear, or lack of control. It is important to focus on the things we can control. And take steps to
protect those that are most vulnerable to this virus in our community.

Summit County Public Health encourages Summit County residents and visitors to be diligent in
practicing behaviors that limit the spread of disease:

* Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially
after using the restroom; before eating; after blowing your nose, coughing or
sneezing.

* Get a flu shot if you have not already received one this year. Lower numbers of flu
cases reduce pressure on health care resources.

* Keep your distance from anyone who is sick.

* Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your inner elbow shirt sleeve, not your
hand. Throw any tissues directly in the trash immediately after use.

* Stay home when you are sick.

* Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular
household cleaning spray or wipe.

* Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

* If you are concerned about your symptoms, please call the office of your health care provider before you go. Tell them about your travel or contact as well as your symptoms. Your health care professional will work with county and state public health departments and the CDC to determine if you need to be tested for COVID-19.

If you are feeling heightened stress or anxiety related to COVID-19, please call the Colorado
Crisis Support: 844-493-TALK (8255), Text TALK to 38255 or visit
www.ColoradoCrisisServices.org

As COVID-19 spreads in Summit County, at-risk individuals should stay home as much as
possible to avoid contact with other people. They should enlist friends or family members who
are at lower risk to bring food and other supplies to the house. At-risk individuals who do not
have locally based, low-risk friends or family should contact Summit County Human Services at
970-668-9160 for assistance with critical supplies like food and medication.

To learn more about the 2019 novel coronavirus, including symptoms and prevention, visit the
State of Colorado’s COVID-19 webpage, which also includes a link to outbreak data from the
CDC.

People who have general questions about COVID-19 can call CO-Help at 303-389-1687 or 877-
462-2911, or email COHELP@RMPDC.org, for answers in English and Spanish.

For more information on COVID-19 in Colorado, please see: https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/cdphe/2019-novel-coronavirus