With multiple cases of novel coronavirus now appearing in the Coastal Health District and more cases expected, we have modified our protocol for releasing case updates. Our goal is to keep the information flowing, but the process manageable.
- When we are notified of the first confirmed case in one of our counties, we will issue a press release. If we receive that confirmation after 7 p.m. the press release will be issued the following morning before 8 a.m. Currently, no cases have been confirmed in Bryan, Camden, Liberty, Long, or McIntosh County residents.
- For counties that already have cases, we will issue updates twice daily if there are new cases to report. The updates will be sent to our media distribution lists via email at 12 noon and 7 p.m. and will be posted to our website at GaCHD.org/covid19/.
Just so you are aware – now that commercial laboratories are also reporting test results, healthcare providers may be the first to receive notification of a lab positive case. Also, some cases may appear on the state’s website before we have the lab report for verification. Be assured, all positive labs must be reported to public health and we will maintain an accurate case count, but our agency may not be the first source to announce new cases.
