Crater Health District experiencing increase in COVID-19 transmission: 'assume the risk of exposure is everywhere'

PETERSBURG, Va. -- The Crater Health District, which encompasses the city of Petersburg and the surrounding area, is experiencing an increase in COVID-19 community transmission.

"We have an increase in new community transmission cases as well as new cases linked to facility outbreaks," the Health District said. "Residents should assume the risk of exposure is everywhere and should understand that staying safe depends on their individual behaviors and precautions."

"Now that fall is almost here, we need to maintain our vigilance in following effective prevention measures to slow the spread of COVID-19," said Crater Health District Director Alton Hart, Jr., MD, MPH. “In particular, we must continue to stay home as much as possible, wear face coverings, maintain social distancing, and practice hand hygiene to help manage transmission of the virus.”

The Virginia Department of Health encourages everyone to:

· Stay home as much as possible, especially if you are at higher risk of serious illness. If you must go out in public, wear a cloth face covering;

· Stay home when you are sick and avoid contact with people who are sick;

· Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available;

· Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth;

· Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces;

· Practice social distancing by staying six feet or more away from others; and

· If you are experiencing symptoms, call your doctor;

“Individuals, communities, schools, businesses, healthcare organizations, and local governments all play an important role in slowing the spread of COVID-19, “ said Crater Health District Director Alton Hart, Jr., MD, MPH. “This is how we all work together to save lives. We all have a duty to protect ourselves and those around us.” For the most accurate and up-to-date information online, visit, www.vdh.virginia.gov/coronavirus, and www.cdc.gov/coronavirus

COVID-19 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 contact with sick people.
• Avoid non-essential travel.