HARTFORD, Ky. — Ohio County Healthcare is reporting there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Ohio County. The county remains one of the few in the area with no confirmed cases, though that doesn’t mean COVID-19 isn’t here.
Many people could have the virus, but are not showing any or few of the symptoms. The people who have it and don’t know it are possibly more dangerous than those who do have it. The virus is easily spread and folks who feel fine, but have it, could spread it to people who could die due to complications caused by COVID-19.
Monday, OCH screened two people in its screening process. The screening process includes two phases, in Phase 1, patients are examined at the screening center at the corner of Clay St. and McMurtry Avenue. In Phase 2, patients, who have gone through Phase 1 screening, receive a provider’s order for a respiratory panel (flu, strep or rsv), chest x-ray and CBC.
After reviewing the results of the Phase 2 tests, the provider determines if COVID-19 testing is needed. If yes, the Kentucky Department of Public Health is contacted to request a testing approval number.
From Saturday, March 28, 2020 – Monday, March 30, 2020, OCH had 15 Phase 1 screenings with 11 patients moving to Phase 2. One patient tested positive for the flu. At this point, none of these patients have been recommended for COVID-19 testing.
At this time, OCH has tested a total of 14 patients with nine confirmed negatives and five pending results.
OCH will continue to provide daily updates during the COVID-19 crisis.