WISE, VA – Cases of COVID-19 have been increasing steadily over the last four weeks in Lee, Scott and Wise counties and Norton City. The LENOWISCO Health District, which includes the three counties and Norton City, surpassed a cumulative 1,300 cases this week. The district also has seen 27 COVID outbreaks, 103 COVID-related hospitalizations and 23 COVID-related deaths.
“Simple and effective personal precautions are the key to limiting the spread of this disease,” said Sue Cantrell, M.D., director of the LENOWISCO and Cumberland Plateau Health Districts. “Remember and practice the three Ws: Wear a mask, Watch your distance (six feet), Wash your hands. And keep in mind that your behavior can help protect yourself and others — or put you and them at increased risk. This is especially important for the elderly, or those with other medical complications or conditions. Please make the right choices to protect yourself and others, everywhere and all the time.”
We are all safer at home, especially those who are at higher risk of severe illness. While we can’t eliminate the risk of COVID-19, we can reduce it. VDH recommends the following precautions:
- Cover your mouth and nose with a face mask when around others outdoors in public places, or indoors if you are with people that are not members of your household; that is, people who do not live with you. Wear your mask properly; it should completely cover both the nose and mouth, fit snugly against the sides of your face and allow you to breathe comfortably.
- Maintain good physical distance between yourself and others: six feet or more, or 10 feet or more if singing, shouting or exercising.
- Stay home if you are sick, or have been with someone who is sick.
- Wash and disinfect high-touch surfaces frequently.
- Get a flu shot.
“We can still gather together with friends and family, socialize, exercise, worship and celebrate the holidays, if we commit to doing so safely,” said Dr. Cantrell. “It’s simple and easy to protect yourself, your loved ones and everyone around you.”