The West Virginia Department of Health and Human
Resources (DHHR) today confirmed the second case of novel coronavirus disease
2019 (COVID-19) in the state. Both positive cases are travel related.
The individual is from Mercer County and
is being treated at home. To protect the patient’s privacy, no additional
details will be released at this time.
As
of March 18, 2020, at 7:30 p.m., West Virginia, through its public health lab,
has tested 148 residents for COVID-19, with 143 results coming back negative
and 3 tests pending.
Now that COVID-19 testing is expanded and
available through commercial laboratories and some hospitals, DHHR is only
reporting those tests that have been processed through its state public health
lab. All positive results obtained by commercial laboratories are reportable to
DHHR and are included in the positive case counts.
An information hotline to address public
and medical provider questions and concerns regarding COVID-19 has been
established. Operators are available 24/7, toll-free at 1-800-887-4304 to
provide accurate information about COVID-19, the risk to the public, and the
state’s response.
For the most up to date information, please visit www.coronavirus.wv.gov or http://www.cdc.gov/COVID19.