This article was writtten March 12 with many action changes in the community
With four cases* of the coronavirus identified in the state, Winston County officials and leaders got ahead of the curve with a March 12 Public Health and Medical Services meeting.
There are NO cases at present indentified in Winston County
Winston County Emergency Management Director Buddy King led the meeting as to discuss proper communication channels and plans for the county.
“This is about mitigating problems,”said King.
King noted that Winston Medical Center would be the lead agency on all matters dealing with sick in the county. He added the county and Medical Center along with the state resources are prepared.
“We can handle whatever may pop up,” said King.
Winston Medical Center CEO Winston Medical Center noted he and his staff are receiving constant updates about the virus.
King noted that plans are in place for the “what ifs” of the situation.
“These plans are in place in case an emergency is declared,” said King.
He added that Winston Medical Center CEO and medical staff are the guide on how to handle any medical efforts in the community.
“The Winston Medical Staff is crisis experienced,” said King denoting their heroic efforts during the 2014 tornado.
King outlined that with an emergency declaration federal resources should be available quickly.
“Winston Medical and its staff will lead us through this,” said King.
In the twenty page Pandemic Plan, Winston Medical Center will handle all essential medical and hospital care, will lead the public health protection for any affected populations, will provide vital record services, coordinate with any medical response, and provide information to the media through a designated person.
King noted that one of the issues that may arise is reduction in the workforce due to persons getting sickness and taking time to recover.
“Public sector employees like medical personnel, law enforcement and others may missed days of work from the illness and plans need to be in place to cover those roles,” said King.
Events cancelled through out state and in area.
Curtis D. Jernigan of the Mississippi Department of Health noted that the Heath Department is making recommendations were for social distancing, and to cancel any events with more than 250 persons expected in attendance.
The other MDH recommendations are:
Prevention and Preparedness
For Individuals
Preventive measures against COVID-19 are the same as those for other respiratory viruses like the flu. To help prevent getting and spreading disease:
• Stay home if you are sick, and avoid close contact with anyone who is ill.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes. When possible, cough, sneeze or blow your nose into a tissue, and throw the tissue away.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly, especially after coughing or sneezing, blowing your nose, and using the bathroom. Effective handwashing takes about 20 seconds, and includes cleaning under fingernails, between fingers, and washing the back of hands as well as the front. Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that are touched often.
• Stay in good overall health by eating right and staying active. If you are living with diabetes, heart disease or other condition, keep in touch with your doctor and stay current with your treatment.
• During or before flu season, get a flu shot. Flu vaccination can prevent the flu or make it less severe, and decrease your chance of hospitalization and death. It also keeps you healthier and better able to fight off infections.
• If you are sick, especially with shortness of breath, cough, fever or similar flu-like symptoms, call a doctor or healthcare provider.
•This was on March 12 as of March 17, 21 cases existed.
