County officials update COVID-19 totals

Putnam County officials announced Friday that there have been 398 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county since March. For a further breakdown of cases, visit www.coronavirus.in.gov.

The positive case number also may include positive cases at the state correctional facility located in Putnam County. To learn more, visit https://www.in.gov/idoc/3780.htm.

Putnam County Hospital is now offering curbside COVID testing by appointment only. To schedule your appointment, call the COVID hotline at (765) 301-7019.

As flu season approaches, it is important to remember the distinct differences between COVID-19 and influenza. Influenza (flu) and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses.

COVID-19 is caused by infection with a new coronavirus (called SARS-CoV-2) and flu is caused by infection with influenza viruses. Because some of the symptoms of flu and COVID-19 are similar, it may be hard to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone, and testing may be needed to help confirm a diagnosis. Flu and COVID-19 share many characteristics, but there are some key differences between the two. The CDC has put together a fantastic resource to help individuals recognize the differences.For more information, visit https://www.cdc.gov/flu/symptoms/flu-vs-covid19.htm

Putnam County Hospital would like to remind the community members to mask up while in public settings. Putnam County is slowly reopening for business, but the fight against COVID-19 is far from over. Wearing a face mask is one of the simplest, most effective ways to slow the spread of the virus, but we need everyone to do their part to keep our community safe. Wearing a mask helps prevent someone who unknowingly has COVID-19 from spreading the virus to others. That’s why we are asking the community members of Putnam County to mask up — and speak up about how wearing your mask can save lives.

What should I do if I think I need a test or begin presenting COVID related symptoms?

If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop a fever and symptoms, such as cough or difficulty breathing, call your healthcare provider for medical advice. Putnam County Hospital will begin offering curbside COVID testing by appointment only. To schedule your appointment or for COVID related questions please call the COVID hotline at (765) 301-7019

What should I do if I have questions about protocols for county schools?

All of the county school systems have plans approved through the Putnam County Board of Health If you have questions regarding protocols related to COVID please visit your community school corporation websites. . Any specific questions should be directed to your specific school system.

What else can I do right now?

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

-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 with at least 60% alcohol.

-Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth, especially with unwashed hands.

-Avoid close contact with people who are showing symptoms of illness.

- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

-Cover your cough or sneezes with a tissue or sneeze into your elbow.

-Throw the tissue in the garbage and make sure to clean your hands afterwards.

-Stay home when you are sick.

-Wear face coverings in public when performing essential duties.

-We are all in this together.

Putnam County is providing regular updates on COVID-19 to citizens as part of its effort to complement the daily updates from the Indiana State Dept. of Health. The updates can be accessed via www.coronavirus.in.gov.

To learn more about Putnam County’s coordinated response to COVID-19, please visit the Putnam County Hospital at www.pchosp.org/covid-19-updates or the Putnam County Health Department at www.putnamhealthindiana.org.