03/25/20 Homer Resident Tests Positive for COVID - 19

The City of Homer, in coordination with the Homer Emergency Operations Center Unified Command, announces the first positive test result of 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) of a Homer resident. The individual had been traveling out of state in the Lower 48, self-reported when they arrived by airplane in Anchorage, and was tested in Anchorage. They will continue to remain in Anchorage and isolated until cleared by public health officials.

Homer’s Public Health Nurse, Lorne Carroll stated, "We’d like to thank the client for fully cooperating with public health officials in order to prevent the spread of the virus. Public Health Nurses and Alaska’s Section of Epidemiology are working closely with the client, healthcare providers, and close contacts to identify anyone who may have been significantly exposed. We will continue to keep the public informed through all communication channels. Social distancing is critical. Stay home as much as possible even if you’re healthy, and stay away from those more vulnerable to severe illness. Continue checking in with each other, always maintaining a safe distance. Feeling connected makes a difference”.

“We need your help connecting folks to the right information. Please, share these points:

• If you’re sick, even with a mild illness, stay home. Call ahead to your health care provider before you go into a clinic, doctor’s office or hospital. If you are having a medical emergency, call 911.

• If you know you’ve been in close contact with a lab confirmed case of COVID-19 infection call the Homer Public Health Center (907) 235-8857 or EPI (907) 269-8000.

• If you have COVID-19 questions call 2-1-1 or coronavirus.alaska.gov or the City of Homer COVID-19 Call Line at 907-435-3197.

Now more than ever, it is vital for everyone to follow current DHSS Health Mandates and Health Alert Advisories to protect those who are at most risk: individuals age 65 and older and those with underlying medical conditions. Following the new recommendations from the White House Coronavirus Task Force, the Homer EOC urges citizens to prevent the COVID-19 spread in our community:

1. Listen to and follow the directions of your state and local authorities.

2. Social distance, wash hands and clean frequently touched surfaces.

3. If you feel sick, stay home. Do not go to work. Contact your medical provider.

4. If your children are sick, keep them at home. Contact your medical provider.

5. If someone in your household has tested positive for COVID-19, separate that family member

and keep the entire household at home.

6. If you are a senior citizen, stay home and away from other people.

7. If you are a person with a serious underlying health condition—such as a significant heart or

lung problem—stay home and away from other people.

8. If you are returning from out of state, you are required to notify officials and self-quarantine for 14 days; if you are traveling in state, you are strongly advised to self-quarantine when you arrive at your destination.

Testing for COVID-19 is available at South Peninsula Hospital, but only by referral from your provider. If you are experiencing mild symptoms of illness (cough, fever, aches), the best advice is to stay home and self-isolate. The majority of persons with COVID-19 recover quickly with no complications. If you are experiencing more advanced symptoms (shortness of breath, difficulty breathing) call your provider and, depending on your conditions, they may give you a referral for testing.

For a printed version of this press release, please click here