PRINCE GEORGE COUNTY, Va. -- A second case of COVID-19 has been confirmed in Prince George County, the Crater Health District (CHD) has confirmed Thursday.
Health officials say the patient is a Prince George resident in his 70s and he’s in stable condition at the hospital.
“As we continue to see new cases of COVID-19 in the Crater Health District and throughout Virginia, it is essential that people follow the public health recommendations on social distancing and good hygiene,” said Crater Health District Director Alton Hart, Jr., MD, MPH. “Social distancing is one of the most effective strategies to prevent the spread of COVID-19. We have to do everything we can to protect ourselves, our loved ones and our community.”
The first patient in Prince George was a Fort Lee service member who tested positive on Tuesday, March 24. The service member was identified as California National Guard Soldier in his 30s, on temporary assignment to Army Logistics University.
That patient self-quarantined upon first signs of illness, according to the CHD.
The CHD has established a hotline to answer coronavirus questions for residents of the cities and counties of Dinwiddie, Emporia, Greensville, Hopewell, Petersburg, Prince George, Surry and Sussex.
The general community can call CHD at 804-862-8989, Monday through Friday 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
COVID-19 Safety Precautions
Most patients with COVID-19 have mild to moderate symptoms. However, in a small proportion of patients, COVID-19 can lead to more severe illness, including death, particularly among those who are older or those who have chronic medical conditions.
COVID-19 spreads primarily through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Symptoms include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Symptoms appear within 14 days of being exposed to an infectious person.
Virginia health officials urged the following precautions:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer only if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Avoid non-essential travel.
- Avoid contact with sick people.
- Practice social distancing. Maintain at least six feet of space between yourself and other individuals when out in public.
- Avoid crowds of more than ten people.