A case of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has been confirmed in Sac County. Loring Hospital continues to work closely with Sac County Public Health as it follows protocol for investigating and notifying any individuals who may have had exposure to the individual who tested positive.
“Loring Hospital’s top priority has been and remains the health and safety of our patients, staff, and community,” said Stacy Johnson, chief executive officer and chief financial officer at Loring Hospital. “Though this news is concerning, a confirmed positive test in our county is not a surprise given the global COVID-19 pandemic, and Loring Hospital is prepared to handle such a situation.”
While this is Sac County’s first confirmed case, it may certainly not be the last, making it more important than ever for residents to continue to make prevention a priority. Each individual can help to reduce and potentially prevent the spread of COVID-19 by following simple recommendations, including washing hands frequently, staying home when ill, practicing social distancing, avoiding community gatherings, and covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow/upper arm.
“It’s imperative that we all work together and support each other to help minimize the spread of COVID-19,” said Johnson.
In the past several weeks, Loring Hospital has put several proactive measures in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and to protect the health and safety of all. Most recently, the hospital implemented a no visitor policy until further notice with exceptions under certain circumstances.
“Loring Hospital has been preparing for the first confirmed case of COVID-19 in the county for weeks, and we will continue to focus on ongoing preparedness,” added Johnson. “Loring Hospital will also continue to educate and disseminate information as needed throughout our region and be a resource for information. If we all do this together, we can help make a difference for everyone.”
Approximately 80 percent of Iowans infected with COVID-19 will experience only a mild to moderate illness. Most mildly ill Iowans do not need to go to their healthcare provider or be tested to confirm they have COVID-19. Sick Iowans must stay home and isolate themselves from others. If you think you may need healthcare, call first. Your provider can assess whether you need to be seen in the office or if you can recover at home.
For up-to-date information on COVID-19, visit the Iowa Department of Public Health website at https://idph.iowa.gov/Emerging-Health-Issues/Novel-Coronavirus or call 2-1-1. Please also continue to check Loring Hospital’s Facebook page and website at www.loringhospital.org for COVID-19 updates and information.