The Corona virus or Covid-19 has arrived in the North State with one confirmed case and two others awaiting lab results.
The confirmed case is in Redding. Health officials in Shasta County say the patient, a man in his 50s, is recovering in isolation at home. Authorities believe the man contracted the ailment while traveling.
Butte County officials say they are monitoring two other possible cases. A third possible case in Butte County was ruled out when tests proved negative.
Butte County declared a health emergency last Friday, ratified by the Board of Supervisors Tuesday. Local schools and hospitals are hurrying to prepare for any possible outbreak.
As a precaution, all classes and activities through the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at CSU Chico, a program for older adults, has been suspended until further notice.
Butte County Health Officer Andy Miller said Covid-19 would inevitably appear in Butte County and urged people to make precautions part of their routines. These include frequent and through hand washing, avoiding close contact with the sick, touching one’s face, and staying home from work, school or public gatherings if feeling unwell.
People who think they might need medical attention, are asked to phone clinics and hospitals before arriving.
Those who are considered at elevated risk, including seniors, those with a compromised immune system, lung disease, diabetes, heart disease or other serious chronic conditions should be especially mindful of minimizing their potential exposure.
According to the California Department of Public Health, there were 133 confirmed cases in the state and one known fatality.