WARREN COUNTY, NJ – The first positive case of COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) has been identified in Warren County, according to the Warren County Health Department.
The 56-year-old male, from Mansfield Township, was treated at Hackettstown Medical Center. Testing protocols at this time require state laboratory positive cases to be confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
“While this is understandably concerning to residents, we will continue to work with county and local officials to help limit the spread of COVID-19 in our communities,” said Pete Summers, Health Officer of the Warren County Health Department.
According to the Warren County Health Department, “the confirmed case of COVID-19 traveled overseas beginning three weeks ago. Upon return last week, he did not visit anywhere in Warren County besides Hackettstown Medical Center Emergency Department and his own private residence in Mansfield Township. He has had no contact with any Warren County residents. Hackettstown Medical Center was aware of his travel history before he arrived and was fully prepared to receive him. He is now doing well and recuperating at home.”
Warren County Health Department is encouraging the public to contact the NJDOH Hotline at 1-800-222-1222 if they have general questions about COVID-19. Accurate and updated information can be found on the CDC’s Coronavirus website at cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/ or from NJDOH at nj.gov/health/cd/topics/ncov.shtml.
People at higher risk of getting sick from COVID-19 include adults over 60 years old, and people who have serious medical conditions including heart or lung disease, diabetes, cancer, or who may be immunocompromised.
In accordance with the Governor’s Executive Order issued yesterday (March 16, 2020), Warren County is advising social distancing and urges individuals to take the following precautions:
- Stay home as much as possible, avoid unnecessary events and gatherings.
- Stock up on food and medication.
- Be sure to have at least two weeks of household items and groceries on hand so that you will be prepared to stay home for an extended period of time.
- Take everyday precautions. o Stay home when you are sick. Avoid close contact with those who are sick.
