DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH IN MADISON COUNTY 

MADISON, Fla.—Madison County received confirmation of three additional cases of COVID-19, the novel coronavirus. The persons ill with the virus are a 26-year-old male, a 1-year-old male and an infant female all with contact to previously identified positive cases. This brings Madison County’s total COVID-19 cases to 10, including 9 residents and 1 non-resident.

The Florida Department of Health in Madison County (DOH-Madison) is now conducting its contact investigation and working on identifying and notifying individuals who will need to selfmonitor for symptoms for a 14-day period. Contact investigations are a critical way for staff epidemiologists to track and prevent the spread of disease.

A total of 59 tests have been processed for Madison County from private and public labs with 48 negative results and 1 awaiting testing results. As more positive cases are anticipated, it is imperative that everyone practice social distancing and remain at home other than for essential and necessary activities. Everyone has a role in preventing the spread of the virus.

COVID-19 symptoms and treatment
The symptoms of COVID-19 can mirror illnesses such as influenza. Patients with COVID-19m typically display symptoms such as fever (100.4°F or higher), cough, and/or shortness of breath within 2 to 14 days of exposure to the virus. Approximately 80% of those affected with COVID-19 report mild to moderate illness and experience a complete recovery.

Some experience more severe illness. People who are more vulnerable to the illness include individuals who are over age 65 with underlying health conditions, immunocompromised, ill or have underlying chronic health conditions, such as heart disease or diabetes. Many cases of COVID-19 can be managed at home by treating symptoms, and this is encouraged.

If you are experiencing symptoms or have been in contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19, call your health care provider. It is important to call ahead before visiting your health care provider. Offices must take proper steps to avoid further spread of COVID-19 when a concerned patient arrives for a medical evaluation. If you do not have a health care provider or health insurance, call Madison Medical Center at 850-948-2840 or DOH-Madison 850-973-5000 to determine if you meet the criteria for testing. Assistance with the steps outlined above may be obtained by calling our coronavirus information line at 850-973-5000, option 1.

Many cases of COVID-19 can be managed at home by treating symptoms, and this is
encouraged. However, if you develop worsening symptoms, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or inability to drink fluids, contact 911 and advise them of your symptoms as you may need treatment at a hospital.

For more guidance
For the most up-to-date information on COVID-19 visit https://floridahealthcovid19.gov/ and
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

Local Call Center Available 24/7
Individuals can call DOH-Madison’s COVID-19 call center 24/7 at 850-973-5000, option 1 for general questions about the virus. Individuals can also continue to contact the statewide COVID-19 hotline 24/7 at 866-779-6121 or COVID-19@flhealth.gov. Health care providers should continue to call DOH epidemiology staff if they have questions regarding testing.

About the Florida Department of Health
The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @HealthyFla. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.