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A press conference was held in the Lenoir County Commissioner’s room with public health officials. Lenoir County Public Information Officer Bryan Hanks introduced Lenoir County Manager Michael James, Lenoir County Emergency Services Director Jerri King, and Lenoir County Health Director Pam Brown. The conference was called after the first COVID-19 case was reported in Lenoir County and before the second case was reported.

“The past few weeks have involved an intense effort to combat the effects of COVID-19,” said James.

Lenoir County has successfully weathered natural disasters in the past and James reminded residents that they will continue to so do. He asked that they remain calm and diligent in following the recommendations of the Center for Disease Control (CDC), North Carolina Health and Human Services (NCHHS), and the county health department.

Lenoir County Emergency Services are still conducting normal business. Their 911, EMS, Fire and Emergency Management Divisions are operating as they have in the past.

“For us it’s business as usual,” said King.

What has changed is how they respond to certain types of calls based on the North Carolina Office of Medical Emergencies protocols sent to all EMS agencies. At this time, they are asking callers more screening questions, and based on their responses, will let the responders know what to expect. Once on scene, the emergency responder will base their protective measures on the patient’s circumstances.

The first case of COVID-19 in Lenoir County was most likely contracted through area travel. The patient notified the health department, and they’d already placed themselves in isolation. The Lenoir County Health Department is currently monitoring 35 people.

“Right now, the county health department is referring patients to their providers,” said Brown.

Some local providers are offering COVID-19 testing for those who are experiencing symptoms. Most will be tested for the flu first, as that is more prevalent in this area. The health department received a shipment of supplies that local providers and diagnostics centers can utilize should they run low on supplies.

A critical part of containing the spread of COVID-19 is personal accountability. A person with mild symptoms, should stay home and treat them with over the counter medication to reduce fevers or coughs. They can let their provider know of their illness to keep track of it should anything change.

The message from the local medical leaders remains the same. Stay calm and follow the guidelines provided by CDC and state officials.