(Gloucester Township, NJ) –The Camden County Department of Health is announcing that we have no new cases to report today by either the state or private labs monitoring COVID-19 cases. In this ever-evolving global pandemic we wanted to take the opportunity to keep residents apprised of our daily progress during this historic moment in time.
First patient recovered from COVID-19
“Yesterday we announced our third case and continue to monitor several residents in home quarantine. That said, the public needs to know what our status is on a daily basis,” said Freeholder Director Louis Cappelli Jr. “We’ve come a long way in a short period of time in regard to social distancing and mitigation efforts, but it bears repeating on St. Patty’s Day to please stay home and follow CDC guidelines.”
In regard to the first and second cases, the county was able to trace back all of the patient’s exposures and none have exhibited any symptoms since self-quarantining. The first patient has fully recovered and continues to be monitored by the Health Department and the second patient is continuing her self-isolation and is also being monitored by our professionals.
“We are urging residents with any questions about coronavirus, what symptoms look like, and how they can best protect themselves and their family to contact the state’s dedicated coronavirus call center at (800) 962-1253 or (800) 222-1222,” said Freeholder Carmen Rodriguez, liaison to the Department of Health and Human Services. “It is important to take this threat seriously, but it is also critical that each of us respond appropriately. There is currently no need to stockpile food or water, and there is no benefit from buying large quantities of facemasks which do not protect the general public from contracting the virus. Hand washing and other personal hygiene practice continue to be the most effective way of protecting yourself from this virus.”
Moving forward, the Freeholder Board and the county Department of Health will be hosting a Facebook Live Town Hall on Thursday, March 19, at 3 p.m. at https://www.facebook.com/camdencountynj/. The event will include participants on the front line of the battle against the virus from our health department, Congressman Donald Norcross and Freeholder Director Cappelli. The event is open to residents and we will try to answer as many questions as possible after short presentations by the speakers.
The best way to prevent the spread and contraction of coronavirus is practicing good personal hygiene:
- Wash your hands thoroughly, and often, with soap and water for 20 seconds;
- Stay home when you’re sick;
- Avoid contact with others who are sick;
- Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue; and
- Clean frequently touched surfaces and objects.
Anyone who believes they have been exposed to coronavirus should contact their healthcare provider immediately, and before visiting a providers’ office, hospital, or the emergency room. To prevent the spread of the virus, it is critical that healthcare providers are aware of your symptoms, travel history, and other relevant details before you enter facilities with other patients.
Residents should call 9-1-1 during emergencies only, for those with questions or concerns related to the coronavirus, the NJDOH has partnered with the New Jersey Poison Information and Education System to open and operate a dedicated coronavirus call center at 1-800-222-1222. More information is also available on the state’s coronavirus webpage.
Information regarding Camden County’s preparations, response, and general information provided to the public is available by visiting camdencounty.com. Residents should frequently check the county webpage and social media for up-to-date information.