FRANKFORT, Ky. (WTVF) — The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Kentucky has risen to 917. Forty people have reportedly died from the virus.
In his Saturday update, Governor Andy Beshear noted this count reflects a increase of 92 cases since Friday.
Statewide, 16,663 people have been tested for the novel coronavirus. Seventy-six COVID-19 patients are currently hospitalized.
Governor Beshear urged residents to follow social-distancing without exceptions. He showcased one model the state is following, which predicts 3 months of strict self-quarantine actions would result in around 2,000 deaths, while poor self-quarantine would result in around 13,000.
"How well we do social-distancing matters...When you think about the fact it could be the difference in 11,000 Kentuckians, it shows you how important that is."
Beshear discussed the state's efforts to acquire more personal protective equipment for healthcare workers. He requested any companies able to make these products contact the state. He also asked anyone able to donate to contact 833-GIVE-PPE or visit giveppe.ky.gov.
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See all our coronavirus coverage here
COUNTY-BY-COUNTY CASES IN TENNESSEE
What is COVID-19 (a.k.a. the new coronavirus?)
According to the World Health Organization, coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases. Examples include the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV)and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). A novel coronavirus (nCoV) is a new strain that has not been previously identified in humans. COVID-19 stands for "Coronavirus disease 2019," which is when this strain of the coronavirus was discovered.
What are the symptoms?
The CDC says patients confirmed to have the 2019-nCoV reportedly had mild to severe respiratory illness with:
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Or at least two of the following symptoms:
- Fever
- Chills
- Repeated shaking with chills
- Muscle pain
- Headache
- Sore throat
- New loss of taste or smell
At this time, the CDC believes symptoms could appear as soon as two days after exposure, or as long as 14 days.
Prevention
The CDC is recommending "common sense" measures such as:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
