Additional Coronavirus Information

As more information becomes available regarding confirmed Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in the United States, we want to remind you Erlanger Health System officials and medical specialists continue to monitor updates and are working closely with county and state health officials in providing education and training to our medical community.  Erlanger also has a dedicated pathogens team prepared to care for patients exposed to specific pathogens such as Coronavirus. Erlanger's Office of Emergency Management and Preparedness is coordinating daily with other local, state, and national response agencies to maintain a state of readiness. Erlanger's safety and treatment protocols include following the recommended screening process developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

How confirmed cases will be reported

Erlanger officials, as well as our employees, physicians, contractors, and business partners are unable to provide public information on potential or positive coronavirus cases. All confirmed cases for our region will be reported either by the county and/or state health departments.

Information not released by the county or state health departments is not official.

Due to the nature of other types of viruses, upper respiratory infections, flu, pneumonia, and other immuno-compromised medical conditions in our community, we are asking for your assistance to allow protocols and official communications to take place before providing coronavirus information in our region.

From the CDC: How to protect yourself from illness

• Wear a mask to help protect others in your community.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash; avoid reusing a handkerchief.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• – If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects

For more information on prevention and treatment, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html

From the CDC: What to do if you are sick

Call ahead to a healthcare professional if you develop a fever and symptoms of respiratory illness, such as cough or difficulty breathing, and have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19 or if you live in or have recently traveled to an area with ongoing spread of COVID-19. Tell your healthcare professional about your recent travel or contact. Your healthcare professional will work with your state’s public health department and CDC to determine if you need to be tested.

• Stay home except to get medical care
• Separate yourself from other people and animals in your home
• Call ahead before visiting your doctor
• Wear a facemask
• Clean your hands often and cover your coughs and sneezes
• Avoid sharing personal household items
• Clean all “high-touch” surfaces everyday
• Monitor your symptoms

For more information on what to do if you are sick, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/