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JIC Release No. 10 - Two New Cases Test Positive for COVID-19

JIC Release No. 10 - Two New Cases Test Positive for COVID-19

JIC Release No. 10 - Two New Cases Test Positive for COVID-19


3/17/2020

Joint Information Center – JIC Release No. 10

March 17 2020, 6 p.m. (ChST)

Two New Cases Test Positive for COVID-19

The Guam Department of Public Health and Social Services (DPHSS) tested 20 individuals for COVID-19 on Tuesday, March 17, 2020. Two tested positive, and 18 tested negative for SARS-CoV-2.

A total of 46 tests were performed from March 12, 2020 through March 17, 2020. To date, a total of five cases tested positive and 41 cases tested negative for COVID-19. It is important to note that the spread of COVID-19 is a dynamic situation and information may change as it develops.

Two New Positive Cases

The test results were made available late Tuesday afternoon. The preliminary investigation indicates that one of the recently confirmed cases has a familial connection to two prior confirmed cases announced on March 15, 2020. Today’s second unrelated case had recent travel history to the Philippines. All five confirmed cases are currently in isolation. 

GovGuam Continues COVID-19 Response

The Government of Guam continues to aggressively implement its response to prevent and contain transmission of COVID-19 in Guam. DPHSS has been actively conducting contact tracing for the first three positive COVID-19 cases identified on Sunday, and has also launched contact investigations for the latest confirmed cases. The contact tracing investigation includes identifying close contacts of the individuals. Close contacts will be quarantined and actively monitored by DPHSS for 14 days. 

COVID-19 Screening and Testing

Testing for COVID-19 is ONLY available for people who meet the testing criteria. If you are experiencing symptoms consistent with COVID-19, please call your healthcare provider. You can also call these numbers to speak with a DPHSS registered nurse: (671) 480-7859; (671) 480-6760/3; (671) 480-7883. These numbers are operational daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. and are specific to medical-related questions, only.

Residents Urged to Practice Social Distancing

On Monday, Governor Lou Leon Guerrero ordered a 14-day suspension of all non-essential government operations, ordered the closure of schools, and prohibited large gatherings effective immediately. During this time, in an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19, all children and adults are encouraged to practice social distancing. Individuals should avoid large groups and take extra measures to put distance between themselves and others to reduce the risk of being exposed to this new virus. Social distancing includes avoiding high fives, shaking hands, hugs, or close contact with others.

Do Your Part to Slow the Spread of the Coronavirus

Even if you are young or otherwise healthy, you are at risk, and your activities may increase the risk for others. It is critical that you do your part to slow the spread of COVID-19.

  • Work from home whenever possible.
  • If you work in a critical infrastructure industry, as defined by the Department of Homeland Security, such as health care services and pharmaceutical and food supply, you have a special responsibility to maintain your normal work schedule and your employers should follow U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance to protect your health at work.
  • Avoid social gatherings in groups of more than 50 people.
  • Avoid eating or drinking at bars, restaurants and food courts. Use drive-through, pick up or delivery options.
  • Avoid discretionary travel, shopping trips, and social visits.
  • Do not visit nursing homes, retirement homes, or long-term care facilities.
  • Practice good hygiene.
  • Wash your hands especially after touching any frequently used item or surface
  • Avoid touching your face
  • Sneeze or cough into a tissue or the inside of your elbow
  • Disinfect frequently used items and services as much as possible

 

Stay Up to Date with Reputable Sources

It is important to note that the situation can change quickly. The community is reminded to only share official notices and visit the following links for the most up-to-date information:

For media inquiries, contact the Joint Information Center at (671) 478-0208/09/10 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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