SUMNER COUNTY, Tenn. (WTVF) — Sumner County Mayor Anthony Holt announced today the declaration of emergency due to COVID-19 in Sumner County would be extended. The extension of the declaration goes into effect Friday.
With the declaration of emergency, Holt is asking citizens to continue social distancing while also following all CDC guidelines for COVID-19.
In an email announcing the extension, Holt said, "The COVID-19 virus has generated a worldwide challenge that we must face in order to protect ourselves, our families and our world. It has been our goal in Sumner County, to remain ready and prepared to battle this pandemic and the challenges it has presented ... This is a time for all of us to take necessary steps to reduce the spread of this virus. Practice social distancing, avoid large crowds, wash your hands frequently, and wear a face mask while in public places."
More information on Sumner County's response to COVID-19 can be found on the county's website.
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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.
