DeKalb County has its first confirmed case of the coronavirus as of Monday, March 23.
County Mayor Tim Stribling released the following statement Monday afternoon.
“We have been notified by the TN Department of Health that a resident of DeKalb County has tested positive for the novel coronavirus,” said County Mayor Tim Stribling. “The patient has been placed in quarantine.
This is not unexpected. We are coordinating with the Tennessee Department of Health (TDH) and the healthcare community to make sure all DeKalb County residents are protected.
“The worst thing we can do during trying times like this is panic. It is important to remember that the vast majority of patients that contract this virus have a mild course of illness and recover quickly. If you are ill with respiratory symptoms, it is very important that you call your doctor first. Do not go the Emergency Department or any doctor's office without calling first. We all have to work together to make sure our health care community is not overwhelmed with worried well.
“We will continue to closely monitor this evolving situation and will adapt our response as appropriate. Yes, this virus has caused some inconveniences. But those inconvenience are small compared to what we stand to lose if we keep spreading coronavirus; our loved ones, the doctors and nurses who’ll care for them, our friends who are fighting cancer or who have other health issues. Social distancing might be a pain for you, but it is a chance to be a hero for other people. There might be some other inconveniences in the coming days, but this will end and we will be stronger as a community.
“Here are some things you can do to help.
“As I mentioned, do not go to the doctor or the ED without calling first. Keep your hands clean and continue to practice social distancing. If you are feeling bad, stay at home. Keep an eye on our elderly. They need to be staying at home as much as possible and we need to support them and keep them safe.
“We are working closely with the TDH and all agencies of government at all levels to minimize the impact on the residents of DeKalb County. That has been and continues to be our primary concern. We will get through this together,” Stribling concluded.
Individual with specific questions can call the TDH Information line at 877-857-2945 or 931- 931-646-7586.
