CLAY HEALTH DEPT ANNOUNCEMENT
March 18 2020

   CCHD is acting on CDC guidance to mitigate the risk and prevent the spread of CoVID-19. CCHD has been providing public education on CoVID-19. We have been providing updates on our Facebook page. CCHD has provided mitigation guidance to businesses, food establishments, and faith based establishments. We have contacted individuals over any events (that we are aware of) that would bring more than 10 people together. This contact was to provide education on CDC guidance.

    CCHD has discussed mitigation plans and education with medical establishments, senior centers, community building, and ambulance service. Local Emergency Planning Committee members have been frequently updated. Our mission is to protect the people of our county. Staff has been participating in nearly daily staff meeting to provide updates as they are received from the State.

    Clay County providers have discussed how we will address CoVID-19 testing. Clay now has the ability to test. The specimens for testing are sent to the State Lab in Charleston or can be sent to a private lab, Lab Corp, within the state. Persons being tested will need to meet criteria set by the State. This is a standard at any WV facility. We have no cases at this time.

    My message to the public is: Stay calm while being prepared; this will be a community effort-stay home when possible, wash your hands or use hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol) frequently, avoiding touching you face, and use cough/sneeze etiquette; call to check on your elderly and disability family, friends, and neighbors.