News spreads quickly across the country as West Virginia reports it has a confirmed positive for Coronavirus (Covid-19). All 50 states have reported positive tests for the virus and it is impossible to stay ahead of the constant stream of information coming forward. Locally the Grand County Public Health office has established an information center for the latest news on the Covid-19 pandemic. (Link Below)

Background

On Saturday, March 14, Grand County Public Health delegated authority to the Grand County COVID-19 Response Team, a Type 3 Incident Management Team led by Chief Brad White of Grand Fire. The team’s objectives are to minimize local transmission of the COVID-19 pandemic, provide and disseminate information regarding prevention and treatment measures to the public and community stakeholders, and manage the incident until such time that testing, treatment, and monitoring of COVID-19 falls within the capabilities of Grand County’s healthcare organizations. 

Situation

As of 6 p.m., Tuesday, March 18, Grand County reports the following testing and case numbers for local COVID-19 activity: 

  • Total samples submitted for testing: 26 (since 3/12/20) 
  • Positive cases: 1 
  • Negative test results: 4 
  • Pending tests: 21 

Prevention It is important to take everyday actions to protect yourself and those you love by doing the following: 

  • Wash hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom, before eating, after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. 
  • If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. 
  • Get a flu shot if you have not already received one this year. Lower numbers of flu cases reduce pressures on healthcare resources. 
  • Keep your distance from anyone who is sick. 
  • Stay home if you are sick and keep your children home if they are sick. 
  • Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your inner elbow or sleeve, not your hand. 
  • Throw any tissues directly in the trash immediately after use. 
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using EPA approved products. 
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. 
  • Practice social distancing by maintaining 6 feet (2 meters) between individuals. 
  • Do not congregate in groups of more than 10 and exercise caution when going into public places like restaurants, grocery stores, and church services. 

Testing Testing kits are critically scarce throughout Colorado. However, there is a limited supply of testing kits available in the County. Because of the limited amount, if you have symptoms or think you have been exposed to COVID-19, please call a health care provider for guidance. It is essential that we have enough tests for the critically ill, first responders and healthcare workers. 

Response The team is actively monitoring for potential cases within the county and performing contact tracing on any confirmed positives. A top priority is the ordering and management of supplies as well as resources to support our response efforts. We are collaborating with local agencies, organizations and volunteers to support the Grand County community during this difficult time. We are also working to address access to food and housing, financial assistance, education, transportation and emergency information for our citizens and visitors.

Visit co.grand.co.us/covid19 or covid19.colorado.gov to access up-to-date and helpful information.