FRANKFORT, Ky. (LEX 18) — Governor Andy Beshear provided an update Saturday on the state's first case of COVID-19.
Beshear confirmed that the patient was a resident of Harrison County and that the patient was initially treated at Harrison Memorial Hospital before being transferred to UK Chandler Medical.
Although the individual in question was initially in serious condition, they have improved, said Beshear.
Harrison County Schools will be closed all next week for cleaning.
Beshear said he did not recommend closing any local businesses. Instead, the governor recommended canceling public gatherings and avoiding large social settings, especially if you are an individual over the age of 60 or have a pre-existing or underlying health condition.
The governor used the term "social distancing" frequently within his remarks.
Beshear also recommended that nursing homes in Harrison County close to visitors next week to help prevent the virus from spreading to those who are most vulnerable.
The governor also said he would work on loosening pre-authorization on Medicaid for those who need to be checked for the virus. Health officials also encouraged employers to be understanding about sick leave.
Alex Barnett the Judge-Executive of Harrison County spoke to reporters stating that while "Harrison County wants to be first in a lot of things...the coronavirus was not one of them." He did assure residents that their team had been preparing and that they did expect more cases.
They were not able to provide information on the person's contacts or travel patterns at this time. Epidemiologists are still working on establishing a timeline and who the patient has had contact with.
A hotline for coronavirus concerns has been set up: 1800-722-5725
— Kristen Edwards (@kedwards_tv) March 7, 2020
