Sandusky County reports first COVID-19 case

FREMONT — Sandusky County has its first COVID-19 case, the health department announced Monday afternoon. A 60-year-old county resident tested positive for coronavirus and is being hospitalized, according to a news release. The man recently traveled outside of the state. Spokeswoman Stacey Gibson said the health department is working to determine the man's travel history and who he may have been in close contact with while sick. "People who may have been exposed would be notified and may be quarantined and observed for symptoms of COVID-19," she said. Sandusky County health commissioner Bethany Brown said no further information will be released about the man's identity to protect his privacy. "As seen in other areas of the United States experiencing community spread, additional cases are expected to rise in Sandusky County," the news release states. "It is a matter of time before COVID-19 will be in all communities across Ohio but as Sandusky County residents, (we must) continue to follow the recommendations and orders of Gov. Mike DeWine and director of the Ohio Department of Health Dr. Amy Acton." It's unknown how long the man has been hospitalized, whether he is is in an intensive care unit and if he is on a ventilator. Gibson didn't say when or where the man was tested for coronavirus. Right now, testing is not readily available for Sandusky County residents. "Testing supplies are limited, and those seeking tests must meet certain criteria set forth by health officials," Gibson said. COVID-19 symptoms include fever, dry cough and shortness of breath. Reported cases have ranged from mild to severe. "Most healthy people recover but need to be isolated from others while they are contagious," the release states. If they feel sick with COVID-19 or another illness, residents should stay home and isolate themselves from others until they have no symptoms for 24 hours. If symptoms are severe, residents should call their health care provider and call the healthcare facility ahead of showing up there so other patients can be protected. The Sandusky County health department also reminded residents to: • Practice social distancing by avoiding large crowds and staying at least six feet away from other people as much as possible; If someone is diagnosed with COVID-19, everyone living in the residence should quarantine for 14 days. • Practice good hand washing using soap and water for at least 20 seconds; An alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be used if soap and water are not available. • Avoid touching the mouth, nose and eyes and not share food and drinks with others • Cover coughs with your arm or a tissue. • Clean and disinfect frequently used objects and surfaces often • Ask their employer about the possibility of working from home