The Knox County Health Department announced today the first death from the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) of a resident of Knox County. The resident was a female in her 70s. To protect the patient’s confidentiality, no further
information about the patient will be provided.
This is a sad day and our hearts go out to her family and friends. This is not the kind of news we ever want to announce. We are expecting to continue to see positive cases. We need to redouble our efforts in keeping each other
safe” explained Michele Gabriel, Public Health Administrator. “This threat is real. The consequences of our actions or inactions as they may be are real. We all have the ability to make a difference and we all have the responsibility to do so, said Gabriel.” The Public Health Department is taking necessary, carefully considered steps to slow down the spread of the disease and to protect those at greatest risk. We are facing a historic public health challenge and know this is a very difficult time. Our top priority continues to be protecting the health of our community.
The Knox County Health Department has received as of Wednesday, July 22, 2020 a total of 201 positive COVID-19 cases among Knox County residents.
Many people who acquire COVID-19 will have mild symptoms, can self-isolate and do not need to be tested. Older individuals and those with underlying medical conditions are at higher risk for severe illness. The best ways to protect yourself are to wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, avoid touching your face with unwashed hands, avoid close contact with people who are sick, stay home when you’re sick, cover your cough or sneeze and clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces. Remember, frequently touched surfaces could include door handles, counter tops, cell phones, pump handles at gas stations, pay keypads at stores and money.
The Knox County Unified Command reminds county residents to use trusted sources for the latest information on COVID-19 such as; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention www.cdc.gov and Illinois Department of Public Health www.dph.illinois.gov. The following webpage, http://gis.ci.galesburg.il.us/COVID , is the official source of information on COVID-19 numbers for Knox County. For general questions about COVID-19, call the hotline at 1- 800-889-3931, email dph.sick@illinois.gov or call your Knox County Health Department at 309-344-2224.
***Report Courtesy of the Knox County Health Department***
