On March 29, 2020, Polk County EMS was dispatched to a medical call that did not identify as a potential COVID-19 case per the County’s 9-1-1 protocols.

In the course of the call, the EMS crew determined that the patient was suspected to be a COVID-19 patient based on symptoms and travel history.

During the interaction, the EMS workers were exposed for a period of time without the use of Personnel Protective Equipment. No further exposure occurred beyond the EMS crew.

The EMS crew was immediately placed into self-quarantine and is now in self-isolation for 14 days starting on the date of exposure. They did not respond or interact with any other people after they were quarantined.

The patient subsequently tested positive for COVID-19 and is in isolation. The Polk County Health Department is following public safety protocol and is contacting and interviewing individuals who were in contact with the patient.

Due to confidentiality laws, no further information can be released at this time.

When calling for services through 911, all citizens are asked to answer questions comprehensively about their symptoms and travel history to protect others.

“This shows the dedication of the emergency responders to the people of Polk County. Together we will all get through this event,” County Manager Marche Pittman said.

Symptoms of COVID-19 may appear from two to 14 days after exposure and can include fever, cough and shortness of breath, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Citizens experiencing such symptoms should call their healthcare provider or the Polk County Health Dept. at (828) 894-8271. In case of a medical emergency, citizens should dial 9-1-1.

North Carolina currently is under a mandatory stay at home executive order from the governor at least until April 29 to slow the spread of COVID-19. Citizens should stay at their residences and limit social interactions and travel for essential activities or essential business purposes. People should practice social distancing, refrain from nonessential travel, frequently wash their hands and take other precautions to lessen the chances of exposure and spread. More details about North Carolina’s stay at home order can be found in this frequently asked questions document from the governor’s office.