Worcester County Health Department confirms first case of COVID-19 in Worcester County

(Snow Hill, MD)- The Worcester County Health Department (WCHD) confirmed the first positive test for a case of COVID-19 in Worcester County on March 19, 2020. The patient is a male in his 30s who lives in Worcester County and is recovering at home.

Worcester County Health Department is conducting a contact investigation and appropriate close contacts will have arrangements made for testing if indicated.

Worcester County Health Department opened a call center Thursday, March 12, 2020, for questions regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19). Callers can reach the center during health department business hours (8 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday) by dialing 410-632-1100 option #8. General information on COVID-19 is available 24/7 through Worcester Health’s Public Information Line (410-632-4321) and WorcesterHealth.org.

If you are experiencing possible COVID-19 symptoms (fever, cough, shortness of breath) contact your primary care doctor for further screening to determine if you should be tested. Unless you are suffering a medical emergency, please do not show up unannounced at an emergency room or other medical facility. You should speak with your healthcare provider, who can alert an emergency room so that its staff is ready with proper protective gear.

“This is a time when we all need to work together. Please do your part in controlling the spread of this virus. Basic prevention strategies such as washing your hands often, covering your cough and sneeze, staying home when you are sick, and practicing social distancing can help us all keep one another safe and healthy during this time,” said Rebecca Jones, Health Officer.

To protect yourselves and others, wash your hands often, cover cough/sneezes, clean surfaces, and stay home if sick. For more information on Coronavirus and prevention tips, visit WorcesterHealth.org or call 410-632-1100 option #8 to connect to our call center (Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm). For COVID-19 information in the State of Maryland, please dial 2-1-1.