Grant County reports ten more positive COVID-19 cases
Published 9:53 am Wednesday, August 25, 2021
- A Grant County Health Department staff member demonstrates how a COVID-19 rapid test works last week at the health department.
Ten people in Grant County have tested positive for the coronavirus.
The Grant County Health Department reported Wednesday that those infected with the virus live in the John Day, Canyon City, Mt. Vernon, and Prairie City ZIP codes.
The health department said the people are working with their health care providers for proper care and safety and contacting those who meet the definition of close contact.
According to the health department, no other information is provided in the press release to maintain the privacy of the people the department has identified as testing positive for the virus.
“I realize many people want more information than we have provided,” Jessica Winegar, Grant County Health Department’s clinic manager said. “But privacy of the cases is a patient right and is very important to healthcare.”
The health department said they suggest people go to the Oregon Health Authority’s website for more information regarding vaccine breakthrough cases and other case-related data.
The health department notes that fully vaccinated, close contacts do not need to quarantine as the vaccines have been proven to be safe.
The health department said the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine is 95% effective against contracting the coronavirus, while the Johnson and Johnson has a 66% effectiveness rate.
Grant County Health officials urge anyone interested in receiving either vaccine to contact the following entities to schedule an appointment:
Grant County Health Department: 541-575-0429
Strawberry Wilderness Clinic: 541-575-0404
Len’s Drug: 541-575-0629
Additionally, Canyon Creek Clinic at 541-575-1263 can provide referral information.
The health department said they continue to encourage all residents to take the following precautions:
Wear a mask indoors and wear a mask outdoors if 6 feet of distancing cannot be maintained.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
Stay home if you feel ill.
After someone contracts COVID-19, if they develop symptoms, they will usually appear within 14 days. Symptoms include:
Fever or chills
Cough
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Fatigue
Muscle or body aches
Headache
New loss of taste or smell
Sore throat
Congestion or runny nose
Nausea or vomiting
Diarrhea
The health department said that anyone presenting these symptoms is encouraged to call 211 or their health care provider.