County's confirmed number of COVID-19 cases now totals 70

by From the Cherokee County Public Health Department and the city of Jacksonville

(June 19, 2020) – Seven more cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Cherokee County, increasing the county’s current total to 70. There are currently 17 active cases -- two of which have been associated with a state facility in Cherokee County. The remaining 15 are county residents.

Cherokee County COVID-19 case number 67 is located within the Jacksonville City limits. According to Jacksonville officials, this case makes a total of 12 COVID-19 cases confirmed within the city of Jacksonville, and one of three known active cases within the city limits. Nine cases within the city limits have recovered.

Out of the 70 confirmed cases, 17 have been associated with the state facility, and 53 have been residents of the county – 51 of whom have recovered from the illness. Two county residents have died of the illness.

Human coronaviruses are most commonly spread through respiratory droplets, such as coughs and sneezes. Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough and shortness of breath, these symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure. The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the virus. Everyone has ways that they can contribute to slow the spread of the virus and should remember to:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed or gloved hands.

• Avoid close contact with those who are sick.

• Stay at home as much as possible

• Put distance between yourself and other people. Keeping distance from others is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick. Some people without symptoms may be able to spread the virus.

• Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around other people (grocery shopping, pharmacy, etc.)

If you are in a private setting and do not have your cloth face covering, remember to cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

Texas Health and Human Services has a 24/7 statewide mental health support line to help Texans experiencing anxiety, stress or emotional challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. People can call the Statewide COVID-19 Mental Health Support Line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week toll-free at (833) 986 - 1919. Further information regarding COVID-19 can be found at https://www.dshs.state.tx.us/coronavirus/ and https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.