CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW)- The number of positive COVID-19 cases has exceeded 200 cases and continues to steadily climb a few cases a day.
As of May 18, 2020, there have been 213 positive COVID-19 tests reported in Clarksville-Montgomery.
Of those, 108 are active cases and 103 patients have recovered.
There have been two deaths in Montgomery County and 5,770 negative lab results.
Director Joey Smith, at the Montgomery County Health Department said the active cases are of the biggest concern.
“Montgomery County had our first positive case back in March,” Smith said. “… For a person to be considered recovered, they must meet all of the CDC criteria. … Active cases are very important when it comes to contact tracing and disease investigation.”
Preventing mass spread is still a top priority for leaders.
“I believe that we all agree that we do not want this virus to get into one of our local nursing homes, long-term care facilities, or around a person that can’t fight this disease off,” he said. “So let’s make that our goal. As we progress through each phase of reopening, here are some things we all can do to help us reach our goal.
The following tips were offered by the Montgomery County Health Department.
- Stay home when feeling ill, when exposed to COVID-19 (e.g., positive household member case), or if diagnosed with a confirmed case of COVID-19.
- Increase hygiene practices—wash hands more frequently, avoid touching face, practice good respiratory etiquette when coughing or sneezing
- Wear a cloth face covering (not an N-95 or medical mask, which should be reserved for healthcare workers) while at work and in public to help protect against the spread of the virus
- Practice recommended social distancing to the greatest extent possible— “Further is safer”
- Abide by guidelines established by businesses, which may include the use of gloves, social distancing practices in the workplace and increased sanitation.