The Graham County Health Department is investigating six new positive COVID-19 laboratory results that were reported on Tuesday, April 28th, 2020. Graham County now has 15 reported cases. The six new COVID-19 positives were identified in the on-going investigation of the current cluster. 4 cases live in Safford and 2 in Pima. All known close contacts to the new positives have been notified and have been placed on quarantine until cleared by the Health Department. Twelve positive COVID-19 patients are recovering at home, one was hospitalized, and two have recovered. No deaths reported. Ages of the 15 positive cases: Three are under the age of 20, six are between 35 – 55 years old, and six are 65 years old plus.
As the number of positive cases increase, health department officials are asking everyone to comply with Governor Ducey’s stay at home order: “Stay home, Stay safe, Stay connected.” In addition, we are requesting our residents wear face masks when out in public. These are great tools to utilize to slow the spread of COVID.
General things that everyone should do to prevent the spread of all respiratory illnesses include:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular EPA registered household cleaning spray or wipes.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Wear a facemask when in public.
- When shopping, limit the number of people who you take with you. If possible, pick one person from your household to do the shopping.
- Find up to date information at azhealth.gov/COVID-19 and at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
