BREAKING: 3 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Victoria County

Griselda Perez by Griselda Perez

VICTORIA, Texas- Two Victoria County female residents in their 20’s and one male resident in his 30’s have tested positive for COVID-19.

All three are currently in self isolation in their homes and are being monitored by the Victoria County Public Heath Department (VCPDH).

VCPDH is also monitoring the patients’ families. There are test being set up to identify any contacts who may have been exposed while they were infectious. Anyone considered to be a close contact will be notified by VCPDH.

This is a developing story, check back for updates.

Read the full press release below:

Confirmed COVID-19 cases identified in Victoria County

The Victoria County Public Health Department identified three confirmed positive cases in Victoria County of COVID-19 caused by the novel coronavirus.

Two Victoria County female residents in their 20’s and a male resident in his 30’s are in isolation at their home and are being monitored by the Victoria County Public Health Department (VCPDH).

The Victoria County Public Health Department also is monitoring the patients’ families, setting up tests and working to identify any contacts who may have been exposed while they were infectious. Anyone found to have had close contact with the patients will be contacted directly by county health care staff.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that COVID-19 cases have ranged from mild symptoms to severe illness. Fever, cough and/or shortness of breath may appear two-to-14 days after exposure.

There is not a vaccine to prevent COVID-19. The best way to prevent this illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus through social distancing. However, as a reminder, the CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:

Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

Stay home when you are sick.

Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

Follow the CDC’s recommendations for using a face mask.

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

By following preventative health measures, together, we can work to slow the spread of COVID-19. If you feel sick and believe you may have been exposed to COVID-19, call your health care provider and describe your symptoms, travel history and contact with any individual who has tested positive for COVID-19.

While VCPHD understands residents may be concerned, information suggests that most people who have become infected with COVID-19 only experience mild to moderate symptoms and fully recover. Symptoms include fever, cough and shortness of breath. People at higher risk for serious complications are the elderly and those with underlying health conditions. VCPHD does not recommend that healthy individuals wear face masks to protect themselves from respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19. Residents should only wear a mask if they are advised to do so by a health care professional.

For more information, please call the Victoria COVID-19 hotline at 361-580-5796 Monday through Friday during business hours from 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 5 p.m. Victoria residents also can refer to www.victoriatxoem.org or the Victoria County Public Health Department’s Facebook page.