A minor among four new cases of coronavirus confirmed in Tulare County
The coronavirus continued to spread in the central San Joaquin Valley with the Tulare County Public Health branch on Friday evening announcing four new cases of positive COVID-19 tests, including someone in the age range of 0 to 17 years old.
That brings Tulare County’s total to 11 people.
And the county added: “Through the process of contact investigation, we can expect to find more cases.”
The Tulare health branch is investigating each case, and said the four new people who tested positive for the novel coronavirus either had contact with other confirmed cases or had traveled.
Also among the four new positive cases for COVID-19 in Tulare County is a person in the age range of 18-25.
All the infected individuals are currently at home under self-isolation.
The Public Health nursing staff is identifying anyone who may have come into contact with those who’ve tested positive, then ensuring they are self-quarantining and monitoring their health.
If they become symptomatic, they’re tested for COVID-19.
“It’s important at this time that our community heed the governor’s order to shelter-at-home and ensure they’re only leaving their homes to access essential services,” said Dr. Karen Haught, Tulare County health officer. “We are wishing all our positive cases a swift recovery.”
Of Tulare County’s 11 positive cases, five are in the age group of 26-40, three are at least 65, one is under 17, one is between 18-25 and one is between 41-64.
How the infected people contracted the potentially deadly virus were broken down as the following: six were travelers, two through person-to-person contact and three are currently unknown or under investigation.
A total of 70 Tulare County residents are being monitored, public health officials said.
Tulare County, which reported its positive test on March 12, currently has the largest number of coronavirus cases in the central San Joaquin Valley.
Fresno County has six COVID-19 positives cases, and Madera County has three.
Community members with urgent questions about or symptoms of COVID-19 in Tulare County can call 2-1-1 to be connected to the information and resource hotline.
Seniors over 65 years of age who need assistance with questions and resources may contact K/T AAA at 800-321-2462 or online at www.ktaaa.org.
This story was originally published March 20, 2020 at 7:23 PM.
