County Prepares for COVID-19
As the COVID-19 virus spreads across the United States, as well as the world, here in Jasper County steps are being taken to limit the exposure to the disease.
The Jasper County Charter System is monitoring local, state, national and worldwide communications concerning the Coronavirus, a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person. COVID-19 spreads the same way the flu and other respiratory diseases spread, and is highly contagious.
Because of this, and because the virus is hard on elderly people, The Retreat Nursing Home is limiting visitors.
“To ensure our residents, patients, and staff have minimal exposure to the current evolving COVID-19 outbreak we must follow the guidelines of CDC and the American Healthcare Association. Please refer to our website at www.jaspermemorialhospital.org for the most current local and statewide news,” said an announcement from Jasper Memorial Hospital.
Likewise, Jasper County Schools sent a letter home with students Monday, outlining steps to try to avoid the virus for those who come in contact with an infected person, and actions the school may take when warranted.
“The district is currently updating the online learning platform which will be activated in the event of having to close schools for COVID-19. We are also working with the Georgia Department of Education and the Jasper County Health Department in gathering new information regarding this new global health event.
“Our attendance for both students and staff have remained at or above average. Plans have been developed and are being implemented to ensure extra attention to the cleanliness of our facilities. As we are trying to be proactive regarding COVID-19, we ask our parents and students to be proactive in taking the steps recommended for deterring a widespread event.”
As of Tuesday, March 10, there are zero documented cases of Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) in Jasper County.
Everyone is encouraged to remain vigilant with hand washing. Use soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, washing all areas of the hands. Also, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. Avoid close contact with people you know are sick. Clean frequently touched surfaces and objects daily.
Clean electronic devises with approved wipes or cleaning projects. Stay home if you are sick.
The primary symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Eighty percent of patients with confirmed COVID-19 have mild symptoms. In very severe cases, patients with COVID-19 have developed pneumonia in both lungs. In some cases, COVID-19 can be fatal.
Jasper Memorial Hospital Administrator Jan Gaston said, “We know many of you are concerned about the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and how it may impact us here at The Retreat. Ensuring residents are cared for in a safe and healthy environment is our first priority. Jasper Health Services has had no confirmed or suspected cases of COVID-19.
“The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended a variety of steps that we are implementing to help reduce the potential for the virus to enter our building. We need everyone’s help in battling COVID-19. Given the high case fatality rate in the elderly and guidance from American Health Care Association, we are putting the following actions in place:
•At this time, we request that family and friends do not visit.
•All individual, community, church, and group activities are cancelled.
•Alternative means of communication will be available for residents to talk with loved ones. The clinical staff will communicate any change in a
resident’s condition with the responsible party.
The hospital’s website, www.jaspermemorialhospital.org has up-to-date information on COVID-19.
