The following is announcement from Transylvania Public Health released at 9:46 p.m. on Sunday, March 22.

Transylvania Public Health received notice early Sunday evening that a Transylvania County resident has tested positive for the novel coronavirus, COVID-19. The person is doing well and is in isolation at home.

The Transylvania County resident has not had close contact with a confirmed case and has had no relevant travel history. Transylvania Public Health nurses are identifying close contacts of this person to monitor fever and respiratory symptoms. To protect individual privacy, no further information will be released.

This is the only case of COVID-19 identified in Transylvania County to date. As of Sunday, March 22, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services was reporting 255 cases across the state.

“We have been planning and preparing for cases of COVID-19 in our community,” said Transylvania County Health Director Elaine Russell. “We encourage the public to prepare for the likelihood of local community spread here, because that is what we have seen happen in other areas.”

“Transylvania County has been actively preparing resources to support ongoing critical county services should community spread become a reality. We are committed to continuing to serve out citizens through this crisis,” said Transylvania County Manager Jaime Laughter.

Because COVID-19 is most commonly spread through respiratory droplets, all residents should take the following precautions:

• Wash your hands with soap and running water for 20 seconds

• Avoid touching your face

• Cover coughs and sneezes

• Practice social distancing efforts

• Avoid large groups and public gatherings, especially for older adults and those with existing chronic health conditions

• Stay informed with information from trusted sources

“Our top priority is the health and safety of our people,” Russell continued. “Now, more than ever, it is important to practice good hand hygiene and social distancing efforts, especially to protect our elders and more vulnerable individuals.”

If you develop a fever and respiratory symptoms including cough and shortness of breath, call your healthcare provider. Stay at home and do not go out until your symptoms have completely resolved for at least 72 hours. If you need medical attention, contact your provider for further guidance.

For more information, visit http://www.transylvaniapublichealth.org/COVID-19 or call 2-1-1.