YORK COUNTY, Va. -- A courthouse deputy with the York-Poquoson Sheriff's Office has tested positive for the novel coronavirus, according to WTKR.
The sheriff's office said in a statement that the deputy left work on March 25 and was tested for the virus March 26.
Though the deputy has since made a full recovery, they will be quarantined for four more days and will not return to work without clearance from a medical professional.
Two other courthouse deputies and one civilian courthouse employee are suffering from similar symptoms and have self-quarantined, officials said.
The York-Poquoson Courthouse will be closed Monday to allow for a thorough cleaning.
Twenty people have tested positive for COVID-19 in York County, according to the Virginia Department of Health.
Officials are investigating several "distinct clusters" where there is "local transmission" of the virus in Virginia.
Those clusters include 170 cases in Virginia Beach and 117 in James City County.
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.