On Tuesday, March 31, 2020, the Whiteside County Health Department and CGH Medical Center confirmed the first death of a Whiteside County resident associated with novel coronavirus (COVID-19.) The individual was in their 90s. Additional details about the individual’s death and City of residence will not be disclosed.
“We extend our sincere, heartfelt condolences to the patient’s family and friends,” said Dr. Paul Steinke, CGH President and CEO. “This patient’s passing is a very unfortunate reminder to all of us, about the importance of staying at home and social distancing when leaving the household for work or essential activities, in order to slow the spread of COVID-19. Now more than ever we need to work together to help protect our most vulnerable neighbors.”
If you think you may have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, you should self-isolate for 14 days. During that time, if you develop symptoms of COVID-19, call your healthcare provider before going to the office. Symptoms of COVID-19 include cough, fever, and shortness of breath. It is believed coronaviruses are primarily spread through respiratory droplets. To become infected, people generally have to be within six feet of someone who is contagious (with or without symptoms) and have the droplets land on them.
“We, as well as our key partners throughout the County, continue to work diligently to limit the spread and impact of this virus in our communities,” added Dr. Steinke. “Along with taking the best care of our patients, our priority is also in the safety of our employees…our caregivers. Today and every day we are taking the best precautions, to ensure that they remain safe. When we are constantly being flooded with COVID-19 news, it is hard not to be drawn into the fear surrounding it. But, when we hear about a local death due to coronavirus, it becomes even more real. We must all learn to respect this virus and understand its potential, through ongoing knowledge and education.”
What can the public do?
* STAY CALM: You are not alone in this; your community is here to support you. Talk to your friends and family, and let them know if you are having concerns.
* STAY APART: Keep at least six feet away from others, including while shopping. Avoid the lines by taking advantage of pick-up and delivery services for groceries and other goods.
* STAY PUT: Stay home, and only go out when essential (buying groceries, picking up medicine, etc.) or if you are experiencing a medical emergency. Please try to call ahead.
For general questions about COVID-19, call the IDPH hotline at 800-889-3931 or email dph.sick@illinois.gov. For local, up-to-date COVID-19 information, visit www.cghmc.com/covid19 or follow CGH Medical Center on Facebook.