DOUGLAS COUNTY, Nebraska - The Douglas County Health Department continues to investigate individuals who may have been exposed to confirmed COVID-19 cases.
In a news release from the department:
Since the U.S. started monitoring travelers, the Epidemiology Section has identified more than 350 people who were or are being actively monitored or in self quarantine.This work has involved email, phone and personal contacts with these individuals, many of whom continue work with the Health Department to protect the community.
Close contacts are defined as people who were within six feet of a confirmed case for a prolonged period of time or living with, visiting, caring for, sharing a waiting room with, or having someone infected with COVID-19 cough on you.
If you have not been in close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19, you are not considered to be at risk of getting the disease. When individuals are determined to be a close contact to a COVID-19 case, they are not sick but may be asked to voluntarily quarantine themselves at home. That is to minimize the risk of spreading COVID-19 to others if they become ill.
This means:
· As much as possible you should stay in a specific room away from other people.
· Use a separate bathroom if one is available.
· Try to work or attend school from home.
· Do not use public transportation if you must go to a health care provider.
· Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
· Monitor your symptoms and promptly seek medical attention if your condition worsens.
· Call before arriving at a clinic.
The Douglas County Health Department’s information line remains open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. with additional hours of service provided by the United Way’s 2-1-1 information line.