Dubois County Officials Warn of Sharp Spike in Local COVID-19 Cases in the Coming Weeks

BY: DAVID SHEPHERD, NEWS DIRECTOR

JASPER -- Health officials in Dubois County have confirmed the county's first case of COVID-19, according to a news release sent out Sunday.

No information is being given out about the patient, but health officials say the person is isolated.

"The Dubois County Health Department will initiate an investigation and notify only close contact persons and businesses of the presumptive case in Dubois County,"  explains Dubois County Health Officer, Dr. Ted Waflart.

"We anticipate total positive cases and total tested numbers to rise sharply in the coming weeks due to the increase in testing capacity.  This is not a cause for panic.  With careful action and precautions, we can alter the course seen in other countries around the world, and even other states that have been impacted."     

Dr. Waflart says the health and safety of Dubois County residents is their highest priority, and he added a plea to the public.  "We're all in this together.  Avoid listening to or spreading rumors and continue to follow guidance from our national, state and local health officials.  We must keep each other's spirits up.  We, at the health department, are relying on our fellow residents of Dubois County to keep a positive attitude as we work through this crisis."      

The Dubois County Health Department adds, if you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop a fever and symptoms, call your healthcare provider or the Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center Alternative Screening Site at 812.996.6330.

Hours of operation include Monday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough and difficulty breathing.