RALEIGH COUNTY, WV (WOAY) – As of yesterday, Thursday, March 12, 2020, there are no confirmed cases of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in West Virginia However, this is a rapidly evolving national situation and the Raleigh County Emergency Services Authority is prepared to act in the best interest of the citizens of Raleigh County as necessary.
The Raleigh County Emergency Services Authority / 911 Center is still actively working with the West Virginia Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management and the Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR), as well as the Beckley-Raleigh County Health Department to prepare for a coordinated response should it become necessary.
With the posing threat and in preparation of COVID-19 entering West Virginia, several events that were projected to have large-crowds in Beckley-Raleigh County have been postponed for a later date. Please follow up with the individual venue for additional information and rescheduled dates times.
Should there be confirmed cases in West Virginia, that number will be added to and updated at noon Monday-Friday on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website: www.cdc. sov/coronavirus/20 1 9-ncov/cases-in-us.html.
According to the CDC, the most effective means to prevent the spread of any respiratory virus, including flu, are:
Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
Covering your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
Avoiding exposure to others who are sick.
Staying home when you are ill
The CDC has published updated guidance for individuals and families to prepare and take action for COVID -19 at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community
Additionally, you can call 1-800-887-4304 toll-free 2417. Operators are available to provide accurate information about COVID-19, the risk to the public, and the state’s response. The hotline is being provided through a long-standing emergency preparedness partnership between DHHR’s Bureau for Public Health and the West Virginia Poison Center.
Raleigh County Emergency Services Authority will continue to monitor the situation in coordination with State officials and asks people to use trusted sources for information on COVID-l9 such as the DHHR website at www.coronavirus.wv.gov
