COVID-19: TCHD announces first case of virus in Tompkins

ITHACA, N.Y. — The Tompkins County Health Department says that there has been a confirmed case of COVID-19 in Tompkins County.

“While this is the first case of COVID-19 in Tompkins County, we are prepared to respond to limit future exposures and community spread of the virus. We are looking to our community to take shared responsibility by practicing social distancing and helping each other during the weeks to come,” stated Frank Kruppa, Public Health Director.

TCHD was informed by the New York State Department of Health that a sample sent to the Centers for Disease Control had come back positive. The individual has been in quarantine since the samples were taken for testing.

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The confirmation comes after a conference call with press on Saturday morning where Gov. Andrew Cuomo said there has been a confirmed case of COVID-19 in Tompkins County.New York state also just experienced its first COVID-19 death, an 82-year-old woman with pre-existing respiratory issues passed away in a New York City hospital Friday night.

Guidance from TCHD recommends people continue practicing the same precautions: stay home if you are sick, cover your cough and sneezes, and wash your hands well and often and avoid large gatherings if in the vulnerable populations.

The most serious risks from COVID-19 are among older adults, those who are immune-compromised, or have a chronic medical condition, especially heart or lung disease, and diabetes.

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