Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in Kentucky continue to slowly increase.
As of late Monday, there were 25 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state as four new patients were diagnosed in Jefferson (one), Fayette (two) and Montgomery (one) counties. There has been one death in Kentucky attributed to the virus.
At his Monday press conference updating citizens on the virus’ progression, and reiterating the importance of social distancing, Gov. Andy Beshear said that childcare centers should close by the end of business Friday, with some exceptions. It was also announced Monday that the 2020 Primary Election scheduled for May 19 has been moved to June 23.
Beshear, taking an additional step to limit crowds of people from gathering, ordered restaurants and bars to cease dine-in services. In response, several restaurants in Grayson County are now offering carryout and delivery. Fast food drive-thru window service remains available.
Beshear again requested that people not hoard items from grocery stores, as he has consulted with retail executives and is putting a plan in place to ensure there are enough essentials to meet demand.
As a continuing reminder, recommendations for social distancing in Kentucky include:
- If you are 60 years old or older and/or have diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, kidney failure or other chronic major medical conditions, we recommend you avoid densely populated community events and consult this CDC guidance.
- Nursing homes and other long-term care facilities are advised to restrict visitors and consult Coronavirus (COVID-19) Visitation Guidance for Long-Term Care Facilities
- Working people, students, employers and schools are advised to plan actively for telework/distance learning options appropriate for their situations and support all workers/students to stay at home if they are ill.
- Only go to the emergency department for an illness that would have taken you to the hospital before the COVID-19 outbreak. If you have runny nose, cough, fever or other common respiratory infection symptoms, take Tylenol- or Motrin-like products and stay home from work or school until you are fever-free. If you think you need medical care, please contact your healthcare provider for their instruction or visit an emergency department if you believe you have an emergency.
Kentucky residents may call the state coronavirus hotline at 1-800-722-5725 for advice about when to seek medical treatment. Those with symptoms of coronavirus — cough, fever and difficulty breathing — are strongly urged to call the hotline or their physician before visiting a doctor.
Visit Kentucky’s coronavirus website, kycovid19.ky.gov, for additional information and guidance on the disease.
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
