2 More Diagnosed with COVID-19, Bringing U.C. Total to 18

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Umatilla County now has 18 positive cases of COVID-19 or coronavirus following today’s announcement by the Umatilla County Health Department (UCo Health) that two more people have tested positive.

County health officials say they have been in contact with these individuals and their families. Both individuals have been identified as close contacts of a confirmed case. Both individuals are self-isolating and recovering at home. Additionally, in accordance with Oregon Health Authority investigative guidelines, county officials are reaching out to all identified close contacts of the individuals to provide education and guidance.

Individuals are considered recovered when they have been free from symptoms including fever, cough and shortness of breath for 72 hours. There have been no deaths due to the virus in the county.

Morrow County has five reported cases of coronavirus.

Umatilla County health officials say that eight of the 18 diagnosed have recovered and no deaths have been reported.

“UCo Health strongly encourages all residents to abide by the ‘Stay Home Save Lives’ Executive Order from Governor Brown to help slow the spread of COVID-19,” said UCo Health Director Joseph Fiumara. “These measures include avoiding non-essential trips outside of the home and practicing social distancing by maintaining a minimum of six feet distance between individuals when it is necessary to go out. As the number of cases in Umatilla County continues to grow, it is critical that all residents abide by these measures.”

This week the county released a map showing where the cases of coronavirus are occurring in Umatilla County.

Anyone who is exhibiting any symptoms of respiratory illness must stay home from work for 72 hours after all symptoms (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.) have resolved.

Officials say the county will continue to update its Umatilla County Public Health Facebook page as new information becomes available. County specific test result data is available on the county health website and will be updated Monday-Friday.