The Halifax County Public Health System reported this afternoon the first case of COVID-19 has been confirmed in the county.

County Health Director Bruce Robistow said because of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, he could not say where the person was from, whether the person was younger or older or their current condition.

In a statement this afternoon the county said the health system continues to monitor the positive case while following CDC guidelines for monitoring.  

Health officials are currently following up with other people who may have been exposed to this person. 

Although there are tests available in Halifax County, only those meeting CDC guidelines and under the recommendation of their physician will be tested. 

Please call your physician’s office before going into the office to determine if you will need to be seen.

Halifax County Public Health System continues working in partnership with the NC Department of Health and Human Services, following CDC guidelines for COVID-19. 

According to the CDC guidelines, the best way to prevent the illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus while taking the following steps to protect you.

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands 

Cover coughs and sneezes 

Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily

Avoid close contact with people who are sick

Put distance between yourself and other people (this is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick)

Stay home if you are sick

Wear a facemask if you are sick when you are around other people and before you enter a healthcare provider’s office

For the CDC recommendations for COVID 19, please visit www.cdc.gov/coronavirus and NC Department of Health and Human Services’ website at www.ncdhhs.gov/coronavirus, which will also include future positive COVID-19 test results in North Carolina.