Officials preparing for spread of COVID-19

As countries around the world brace for the growing spread of COVID-19, the latest coronavirus to cause global concern, local and state leaders also are preparing in case the disease makes its way to Alabama.

At Whitfield Regional Hospital needed supplies being inventoried to make sure sufficient items are on hand. Many supplies, such as masks, are manufactured in China, and that country is focusing on its own needs instead of exporting them.

“Our hospital is coordinating with the Alabama Department of Public Health to stay abreast of the latest developments with the virus, and we will continue to work with our public health officials to stay as prepared as possible,” said Doug Brewer, CEO/Administrator.

“Our hospital has taken every precaution to ensure the safety of our patients and our staff. We have developed processes to properly screen and isolate individuals who present to our hospital and who meet the CDC criteria for the virus.”

The Demopolis City Schools system also is preparing for the eventuality of COVID-19 spreading to the city.

“The leaders and administration of the Demopolis City School System are operating under the guidance of the Alabama State Department of Education and the Alabama Department of Public Health,” said Supt. Kyle Kallhoff.

“I know there has been great concern recently about the coronavirus and what we can do as a community to protect our loved ones. My staff and I will continue to closely monitor the situation.”

Alabama’s top health official, Dr. Scott Harris, said the state is in “prevention stance” when it comes to the virus.

More than 100 people who have returned from China and other places the virus is known to be are being monitored, Harris said.  While some of them have shown symptoms, which are similar to the flu, none have tested positive for COVID-19.

The new disease is the sixth known version of the coronavirus. Others include SARS, MERS and versions of the common cold.

All of the organizations said common sense practices are needed to help prevent the contraction and spread of the virus.

The hospital urged members of community to practice good hygiene and, if they are sick, to avoid coming to the hospital to visit patients.

Those who experience symptoms that correspond with the CDC criteria for coronavirus should call their health provider immediately or go to the emergency room if symptoms worsen. If in need of medical attention, call first so that medical providers can be prepared.

Demopolis residents need to follow the same precautions for coronavirus as they would for the flu. They are urged to:

• Stay home when sick. This is especially important for students and staff who have symptoms of acute respiratory illness. They should not return to school until they are free of fever (100 degrees or greater using an oral thermometer), signs of a fever and any other symptoms for at least 24 hours, without the use of fever reducing or other symptom-altering medicines.
• Seek immediate medical care if symptoms become severe, such as high fever or difficulty breathing.
• Use respiratory etiquette. Cover cough with a tissue or sleeve. Keep tissues within easy reach and use no-touch trash cans. Routinely clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects, such as desks, telephones or doorknobs.
• Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.  Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
• Avoid touching face with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Don’t panic! There are no reported outbreaks in Alabama, but it is a good idea to prepare out of an abundance of caution. Make sure to plan ahead if you rely on prescription medications, in particular.