Coronavirus: What You Need to Know The Board of County Commissioners and County Administration are closely monitoring the Coronavirus (COVID-19) through the work of the Public Health Department and our Emergency Services Team.

At this time, we would like to reiterate that the risk to the residents of Lenoir County is low, but this is a dynamic and evolving situation. The Lenoir County Public Health Department is working with public health partners at the state and federal levels assessing this novel coronavirus. COVID-19 has caused an outbreak of respiratory illness and was first detected in Wuhan, China in late December 2019.

”The County is taking proactive measures to protect the community, including working diligently with state partners. Although the risk of contracting COVID-19 is low for our area, we understand that people are concerned. Fortunately, we have had no cases in Lenoir County, and there are steps that everyone can take to prevent or slow the spread of the disease, and we urge residents to take those precautions.” - Pam Brown, Lenoir County Health Director.

If people are concerned about their symptoms, they should CALL their usual healthcare provider to be assessed by phone. If someone has severe symptoms, like trouble breathing, he/she should call 9-1-1 or go to the emergency room. The health department is also available to answer calls at (252)526-4200.

Most people who contract COVID-19 will have mild symptoms and will make a full recovery. Currently, no vaccine is available to prevent COVID-19 infection. Health officials advise that steps taken to prevent the spread of the common cold and flu will also help prevent COVID-19.

Measures you can take to prevent respiratory virus infections include:
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue; then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• The CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19.
• Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-10 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in-close settings (at home or in a health care facility).
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

If you believe you have been exposed to COVID-19 or develop symptoms, call your doctor’s office first.

Read more from the CDC on steps to take to prevent the spread if you are sick. If you do not have a primary care provider, please call the Public Health Department at (252)526-4200.

The spread of COVID-19 is an emerging, rapidly evolving situation. The CDC is constantly monitoring the situation and consistently updating its website with information as soon as it becomes available. Click here to see the CDC's webpage on COVID-19 that includes information on symptoms, travel, guidance for healthcare professionals, and more.

North Carolina's Department of Health and Human Services has compiled a fact sheet, frequently asked questions, and additional guidance for the public, education and child care facilities, and businesses. On March 10, 2020, Governor Cooper declared a state of emergency due to coronavirus concerns. Declaring a state of emergency allows increased flexibility to respond and prevent the virus, and access federal funds; helps speed the receiving of supplies, and gives health and emergency managers across the state budget flexibility.

The state’s Division of Public Health has set up a helpline to answer questions from the public about coronavirus (COVID-19). The phone number to the coronavirus helpline is 1-866-462-3821. It is answered 24 hours a day / 7 days a week.

Please rely on reputable health sources, like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization, and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, for information and updates on COVID-19.

Additional Resources
• COVID-19 Fact Sheet: English
• COVID-19 Fact Sheet: Spanish
• Lenoir County Public Schools Webpage
• Lenoir Community College Information
• UNC Lenoir Hospital
• Lenoir County Public Health Department Facebook Page
• CDC Frequently Asked Questions
• CDC Travel Guidance