First Positive Case of COVID-19 Reported in Gloucester County 

Three Rivers Health District announced March 19 that a pediatric (under 10 years old) resident of Gloucester County has tested positive for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). This case marks the first case in Gloucester County and the first case in the Three Rivers Health District, which includes all the Middle Peninsula and the Northern Neck. The possibility of community spread is being investigated, according to the Virginia Department of Health. 

The patient is at home with family recovering. Gloucester County officials have been in direct communication with the Virginia Department of Health as this situation has developed, and the County continues to take all precautionary measures possible to ensure the safety of its employees and the community as a whole. County officials strongly encourage members of the public to continue safe practices such as social distancing, hand washing and staying home when sick. All questions related to this incident should be directed to the Virginia Department of Health at 804-313- 1638. For general information on this rapidly-changing situation, visit www.vdh.virginia.gov/coronavirus. 

To lower the risk of respiratory germ spread, including COVID-19, the Virginia Department of Health encourages the following effective behaviors: - Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based sanitizer only if soap and water are not available. - Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. - Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing. - Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces. - Stay home when you are sick. - Avoid contact with sick people. - Avoid non-essential travel. 

For more local information on Gloucester County Departmental changes or updates, please visit our website at www.gloucesterva.info or www.facebook.com/gloucesterva .