FRANKFORT, Ky. (LEX 18) — There are no reported cases of the novel coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, in the Commonwealth. Gov. Andy Beshear assured his constituents that the state government is ready should the virus show up in Kentucky.
Health officials stated that they have monitored 100 people, only one of whom appeared to show symptoms of the illness. The one person who exhibited symptoms tested negative for the disease.
Addressing concerns and fears regarding COVID-19, Beshear stated that he understood the fear that Kentuckians felt and that the state is active and ready to use resources if the virus makes its way to the state.
Dr. Steven Stack, Department of Public Health (DPH) commissioner, said that federal guidelines emphasize rapid response for monitoring individuals who develop symptoms and are identified as “at risk.”
“The Kentucky Department for Public Health is working closely with the CDC and local partners to address the COVID-19 response and remains vigilant with active surveillance measures in place,” he said. “This virus is a serious public health concern, however the risk to the general public at this time in Kentucky remains low and we have no confirmed cases and no persons under investigation. If the situation changes and we start seeing person-to-person transmission in Kentucky, we have plans in place to help reduce the impact of diseases like novel coronavirus.”
As for massive events like the Kentucky Derby, Beshear said that he would make changes if the situation changed. As for now, the goal is just to monitor the virus. The state has also launched a website.
The advice the governor and health officials gave was simple: Wash your hands and stay home if you are sick.
