BISHOP — Inyo County’s Public Health Officer, Dr. James Richardson, received notification Wednesday morning, March 25, from Northern Inyo Hospital District regarding a positive COVID-19 test for an Inyo County resident. The patient presented to Northern Inyo Healthcare District’s Rural Healthcare Clinic with symptoms associated with COVID-19, and was tested for COVID-19 based on symptoms and other risk-factors.

Inyo County Public Health is conducting a thorough investigation to identify potential exposures and notify contacts. At this time the patient is currently isolated at home. NIHD currently has 32 COVID-19 tests pending, and Toiyabe Indian Healthcare Project has 2 COVID-19 tests pending. Due to the volume of tests being analyzed currently in California, the turnaround time can take several days.

“At this time it is essential that proactive preventive measures remain a priority to everyone in order to reduce potential exposure risks,” stated Dr. James Richardson “Inyo County residents have a responsibility to themselves, their families, and others to remain home and only leave for essential purposes.”

On March 20, in an effort to limit the spread of COVID-19, Governor Gavin Newson ordered California residents to stay home. Additionally, on March 20 an Inyo County Public Health Order was released prohibiting non-essential public gatherings, closure and limitations of certain businesses, and required social distancing measures.

The public must continue to practice appropriate preventative measures, such as avoiding contact with sick individuals, wash hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, practicing social distancing, and adherence to State and County Orders. If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, such as fever, coughing or shortness of breath, and think you may have had contact with a person with COVID-19, call your health care provider before seeking medical care so that appropriate precautions can be taken.