A man in his 70s tested positive for COVID-19 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. The patient was since sent home to be quarantined.
In an email, the Hospital says, “Riverside has been preparing and will continue to follow proper protocol. Effective immediately and until further notice, we are not allowing visitors.”
Riverside says there will be limited exemptions to that rule, but advises it’s employees to comply with it’s request. The case is Kankakee County’s 1st confirmed report.
Neighboring Will County has 3 confirmed cases while Iroquois County has yet to confirm any.
“If you are sick, stay home,” said Kankakee County Health Department Director John Bevis in a press conference earlier today. “Avoid the emergency departments and other places you normally seek health care if you are not seriously ill.”
“Stay home and help to keep the healthcare access avaliable for others who do have more severe illiness.”
If you have a fever, cough or shortness of breathe, you are advised to consult your doctor by phone. The Health Department adds it advises:
- Staying home as much as possible
- If gatherings are necessary, limit the number of people to 10
- Calling to check on family, neighbors and older adults instead of visiting.
- Checking with your provider about telehealth options if you feel ill.
- Remember to continue using proper hand hygiene.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or sleeve when sneezing or coughing.
- Do not shake hands, instead wave.
For more info on Coronavirus in Ilinois, visit their dedicated website at Coronavirus.Illinois.Gov.
