Late Saturday, March 21, Benton County released a statement advising two new cases of Covid-19 had been confirmed.
Unlike the cases reported earlier in the week, in which two Benton County residents were lodged in Washington state during the known course of their infection – the two people infected appear to be currently lodged here, in Benton County.
Here is the statement from the county:
Today, March 21, the Benton County Health Department reports two more cases of COVID-19.
One case is a female Benton County resident between 40-50 years of age and is being treated at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center in Corvallis.
As part of the Health Department’s response, health officials are in contact with the patient. Origin and contact investigation is ongoing, but officials think exposure occurred through domestic travel.
The other case is a male Benton County resident between 40-50 years of age. This individual is not hospitalized, and was likely exposed due to being a healthcare worker.
“We know this announcement will create additional concern in the community. Our thoughts are with these individuals and their families. At this time we do not believe these cases are connected,” said Bruce Thomson, Benton County Public Health Officer.
“Adequate hand washing with soap and water remains critically important because it is known to be an excellent preventative measure. Additionally, we must practice social distancing and ‘stay home, stay healthy,’ as Governor Brown stated yesterday evening to slow the spread of COVID-19.”
Benton County reported its first two cases of COVID-19 on March 13, 2020. The male and female individuals are recovering in the state of Washington with family.
The most up-to-date Benton County COVID-19 information is available online at https://www.co.benton.or.us/coronavirus.
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