San Andreas, CA…On March 4, 2020, Calaveras Public Health identified local community members that were aboard the Grand Princess cruise ship that departed from San Francisco on February 11, traveled to Mexico, and returned on February 21. The community members may have been exposed to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The community members are self-isolating in their home and in close contact with Calaveras Public Health while awaiting test results.

“Calaveras Public Health is working closely with local healthcare providers and State health authorities on this investigation,” said Dr. Dean Kelaita, Calaveras County Public Health Officer. “Everyone can do their part by taking actions that help us prevent the spread of all respiratory viruses,” said Dr. Kelaita. The community is asked to take the following steps commonly used to help avoid flu:

 Wash your hands often with soap and water.

 Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.

 Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

 Stay home from work or school and limit contact with others if you are sick with fever and cough.

 Clean surfaces that are touched often, like toys and doorknobs.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is working to contact other passengers of the cruise who may have been exposed. If you were a passenger on the cruise, or knowingly came in contact with someone who was, please contact the Public Health Department via telephone at 1-800-754-8889, Monday through Friday, 8:00AM to 5:00PM.

The State and Calaveras Public Health will continue to monitor for potential new cases of COVID-19 and provide updates to the public regularly. Information about COVID-19 can be found on the Calaveras Public Health website at calaveraspublichealth.com or by calling Calaveras Public Health at 1-800-754-8889.