Murray-Calloway County Hospital confirms they received notification of our first COVID-19 positive patient in Calloway County late last night.  On March 11, Murray-Calloway County Hospital opened a dedicated Respiratory Illness Clinic to effectively and efficiently handle the large influx of Influenza A and Strep patients in the community and to best prepare for the possibility of COVID-19 patients.

A visitor came to Murray from out of state last weekend to visit with people here in Murray.  They attended a local church service on Sunday, March 15. After returning home, the visitor developed symptoms on Monday, March 16 and was diagnosed with COVID-19 on Tuesday, March 17.  One Murray resident that this person spent time with is an employee at MCCH. On March 18, the employee followed our protocol and informed us that they had contact with a person who tested positive during our staff temperature checks before their shift started. The employee was wearing a mask already, but was taken to Occupational Medicine for evaluation.  The employee was then sent home and immediately instructed to be quarantined. They were tested, and late last night confirmed positive for COVID-19. The employee and their family are fine and were informed to be at home in quarantine.

The Calloway County Health Department was notified of the outcome so that more extensive history and investigation can be taken as appropriate.

“Until we have the capability to do widespread surveillance testing, we are utilizing the tests only for patients that a physician determines may be potentially at risk,” said Jeff Eye, Chief Nursing Officer.

Community members with concerns about exposure and risk should contact the Kentucky COVID-19 Hotline at (800) 722-5725.

Those experiencing symptoms who feel they need evaluation should utilize the Murray Medical Associates Respiratory Walk In Clinic located in the Medical Arts Building at 180 West. Please call ahead at 270.753.0704 to make a same day appointment.

SYMPTOMS INCLUDE:
Fever
Cough
Shortness of breath

Seek medical advice if you develop symptoms

AND

• Have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19 or live in or have recently traveled from an area with ongoing spread of COVID-19. Call ahead before you go to a doctor’s office or emergency room. Tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms.

There are simple things you can do to help keep yourself and others healthy.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing; going to the bathroom; and before eating or preparing food.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

If you have questions, or would like additional information, please contact Melony Morgan, Public Information Officer and Marketing Director of Murray-Calloway County Hospital at 270.762.1381 or 270.978.6978.

The risk for most people of being exposed to the coronavirus (COVID-19) is low, according to the CDC, but simple, everyday steps can reduce the chance of catching or spreading respiratory diseases including COVID-19. These include covering your cough or sneeze and thoroughly washing or sanitizing your hands. Call your doctor and stay home if you are sick.