Woodsfield – Monroe County Health Department is reporting the first positive cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) in two Monroe County residents. The positive cases are a male and a female, both in their 60s.

Following protocol set by the Ohio Department of Health, our nursing staff has been in contact with the individuals after receiving notification of the positive test results. We will work with the individuals to identify their contacts 48 hours prior to onset of their symptoms and advise those individuals to self-quarantine for 14 days.

The Monroe County Health Department has been coordinating with ODH, our local health care providers, Monroe County Emergency Management Agency, Monroe County EMS, Barnesville Hospital, the regional epidemiologist, and community partners to prepare for potential cases of COVID-19 in our community. Our goal is to contain and minimize the spread of the virus.

Health Commissioner Linda Dick states, “With cases already in surrounding counties and the increasing number of confirmed cases for the state of Ohio, it is not surprising to have confirmed cases in Monroe County. This virus has been here and can affect everyone differently. Some may experience none, to mild, to more severe symptoms. Common symptoms include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing and generally appear within two to 14 days of exposure. Most people who become sick do not require hospitalization, but older adults and people with chronic health conditions and compromised immune systems are more likely to require more advanced care.”

Everyone should be following Ohio Department of Health Director Dr. Amy Acton’s orders to stay at home.

The changes we make now will save lives. Residents should continue to practice social distancing while Monroe County Health Department completes the disease investigation.

For questions regarding COVID-19, visit ODH’s website at coronavirus.ohio.gov or the call center at 1-833-427-5634.

Monroe County Health Department can be reached at 740-472-1677.