Indiana is reporting its first case of coronavirus. The State Department of Health says a Marion County resident who recently traveled to Boston has tested positive for COVID-19 at the department’s laboratories. Samples will be sent to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for final confirmation.
State Health Commissioner Dr. Kris Box says the patient has been in quarantine since arriving back in Indianapolis, and the risk to the general public is low. The patient will remain in isolation for at least 14 days. The CDC is also working to notify those who were on the flight from Boston and may have had close contact with the individual.
Governor Eric Holcomb is declaring a public health emergency to ensure continued coordination among state agencies. He and Box say the state has been preparing for the possible spread of the virus for weeks.
State health officials say the best way to protect yourself is to wash your hands often, avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, and avoid contact with those who are sick. The CDC does not recommend that those who are well wear a facemask, unless a healthcare professional recommends it.
