Metro Public Health Department officials today were notified by the Tennessee Department of Health of one new presumptive case of coronavirus COVID-19 in Nashville/Davidson County. There are now two presumptive COVID-19 cases in the county, the first case having been announced March 8.
The presumptive case is an adult male, has had mild symptoms, and remains isolated at home. Health Department officials are investigating the source of exposure and will be contacting those who are identified as close contacts.
“Receiving confirmation of an additional case was expected and we are prepared to quickly investigate and provide guidance to those determined to be close contacts to prevent potential spread to others,” said Dr. Michael Caldwell, Director of Health for Nashville/Davidson County. “Our guidance to the community remains the same; everyone should continue to take steps to protect themselves and others by following routine health precautions.”
The best ways to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses like COVID-19 are to:
- 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 immediately throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
While the vast majority of cases of COVID-19 are believed to be mild, the virus can be a very serious infection that can lead to death. Protecting the health of Davidson County is our top priority. The CDC updated its guidance for at-risk individuals on March 10. The definition of “at-risk” is anyone over 60 years old, or anyone of any age with a chronic medical condition including heart disease, lung disease or diabetes. These individuals should avoid crowds and take other steps to protect themselves.
Health Department officials also ask the community to find alternative ways to greet each other besides shaking hands, such as elbow bumps or foot bumps
MPHD will work to identify people who may have had sustained close contact with the confirmed case. Close contacts may include family members, co-workers, healthcare providers, and other contacts. Health officials are working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Tennessee Department of Health (TDH), our healthcare system partners, and many others to contact these people and ensure that appropriate protocols are followed.
MPHD and TDH officials are early in their investigation and new information will be released when new details have been confirmed.
MPHD officials remind the community that Health Department locations are not testing for COVID-19.
For anyone concerned about symptoms like cough, fever, or other minor respiratory problems, call your health care provider. Do not go to the emergency room unless you are injured or may require urgent care. Emergency rooms need to be able to serve those with the most critical needs without putting the health of the patients, healthcare workers and the general public at further risk.
The Tennessee Department of Health has a Tennessee Coronavirus Public Information Line at 877-857-2945. The information line is available daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time.
For more information about COVID-19 visit the Metro Public Health Department and the Tennessee Department of Health. CDC has updated information and guidance available online.