Following the news of the first confirmed case of COVID-19 in North Carolina, Orange County and the Town of Chapel Hill shared their preparation plans with residents if an additional case is confirmed within the community.

On Wednesday, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper confirmed the first case of novel coronavirus known as COVID-19 within the state. According to authorities, a Wake County resident traveled to the state of Washington and got exposed at a long-term care facility experiencing an outbreak of COVID-19. While the test conducted on the resident is presumptively positive, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lab will check to confirm the case.

“I know that people are worried about this virus, and I want to assure North Carolinians our state is prepared,” said Cooper.

In a release, Orange County officials said there are no confirmed cases of coronavirus within the county. Despite this, all Orange County medical personnel and first responders have been informed about the coronavirus and have put in place a protocol to ensure the public’s safety, should Orange County encounter a case.

The Town of Chapel Hill shared a message to its residents saying it is working closely with health experts of Orange County and the region.

A spokesperson for UNC Hospitals said there have been no confirmed cases of novel coronavirus at any UNC Health hospital or clinic, including UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill.

“UNC Health is well-prepared to handle any infectious diseases or outbreaks,” the spokesperson said in an email to Chapelboro. “Our teams of clinicians, infectious disease experts, and emergency preparedness professionals continue to work closely with the CDC, state health department, and others to address the ongoing novel coronavirus situation.”

Symptoms of coronavirus include fever and lower respiratory illness, such as coughing or difficulty breathing. The illness can be more serious for individuals with a weakened immune system, the elderly, or those with underlying respiratory problems.

Orange County Health Department’s Health Director Quintana Stewart emphasized wearing a mask does not help to protect people from contracting coronavirus because cases do not exist within Orange County.

There is currently no vaccine for coronavirus. The CDC recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

A map of confirmed coronavirus cases across the globe was created by Johns Hopkins. The map will be updated throughout the coming weeks and months as more cases of coronavirus are discovered and diagnosed.

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