County Provides Update on COVID-19

UPDATE – A second presumptive positive case of the COVID-19 virus has been identified in Sheridan County.

The second case is a male patient who tested positive for the virus out of state and has returned to Sheridan County to self-isolate in his home, according to an update from Sheridan County commissioners.

The Wyoming Department of Health is reported leading a follow-up investigation regarding the close contacts the second patient may have had. This brings the total number of presumptive positive cases to three in Wyoming, with one case in Fremont County.

The Sheridan County Airport, TSA and the airline are taking extra cleaning precautions during check-in, unloading and between flights, in addition to their normal cleaning schedules.

Essential services in Sheridan County, the city of Sheridan and the towns of Dayton, Ranchester and Clearmont will continue, and no interruptions or closures are expected at this time.

The Montana Department of Health and Human Services has reported four presumptive positive cases in Montana, with one in Yellowstone County.

According to a news release from Sheridan County commissioners, Sheridan County school districts 1, 2 and 3 will continue normal operations with minor adjustments to large gatherings such as concerts. Their guidance has come from State Superintendent Jillian Balow and Dr. Alexia Harris, Wyoming state health officer. Their decisions are based on recommendations and guidelines from the Center for Disease Control and Wyoming Department of Health.

The public is encouraged to keep the situation in perspective and follow guidelines from the CDC, Wyoming Health Department and/or their personal health providers. Recommended guidelines include:

Those who are sick should stay home, but anyone who feels like the illness may be more than just a cold should consult his or her physician. Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough and shortness of breath.

Elderly and vulnerable individuals should avoid gatherings of 250 or more people.

Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

Wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

Sheridan Memorial Hospital has a dedicated COVID-19 phone number, which is (307) 672-1004. The line is strictly for those who have symptoms and think they may be infected with the virus. Testing for COVID-19 is continuing locally, but available test kits are still limited.

Commissioners ask those who are not at risk to not overwhelm healthcare professionals asking for tests. For more information, call Sheridan County Public Health at (307) 672-5169 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and follow the voice prompts.

Local links are listed below.

Sheridan Memorial Hospital: https://www.sheridanhospital.org/

Sheridan VA: https://www.sheridan.va.gov/

Sheridan College: https://www.sheridan.edu/

Sheridan School District 1: https://www.sheridan.k12.wy.us/

Sheridan School District 2: https://scsd2.com/

Sheridan School District 3: https://www.sheridan3.com/