LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — Gov. Andy Beshear confirmed that the first positive case of COVID-19 has been reported in the state.
At an earlier press conference, Beshear had stated that there were no confirmed cases of the virus in the Bluegrass. 10 people had been tested, seven had come back negative and three results were outstanding. That was until this afternoon when one test came back positive.
One case has now been confirmed in Lexington, but the the Lexington-Fayette Health Department clarified that the victim is a Harrison County resident. The University of Kentucky did confirm that the patient is being held in isolation at UK Chandler Hospital.
Epidemiologists will begin establishing the travel history and contact of the victim. Beshear acknowledged that it wasn't a question of if the virus would continue to spread, it is a question of when.
"It is important now that we have the first confirmed case, we should expect at least one other confirmed case at some point in Kentucky," Beshear said.
The governor urged people to practice good hygiene and to stay home if you are sick. He also urged the public to remain calm.
"Fear can be difficult. But there is no cause for fear at this time," said Beshear.
Anyone with concerns, including people who think they have the virus, should call Kentucky's COVID-19 hotline, 1-800-222-1222.
Click here to read the governor's State of Emergency declaration.
