Tue, Feb 13th, 2024 - 11:53am
March 17, 2020 - 11:06am | By Chris Larson
Fargo Cass Public Health (FCPH) continues to partner with the North Dakota Department of Health (NDDoH) to monitor and respond to the rapidly evolving COVID-19 pandemic. Fargo, West Fargo and Cass County jointly declared a state of emergency on March 16, 2020, as part of an ongoing response to COVID-19, following declarations at the national and state levels. There are no confirmed cases in Cass County, and there remains just one confirmed case in the state, in Ward County.
Fargo Cass Public Health remains committed to providing education and support to our community. The most appropriate way to keep you, and your family, safe is to follow guidelines laid out by NDDoH and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The White House Coronavirus Task Force announced new recommendations today for social distancing, including avoiding gatherings of more than 10 people. FCPH is currently working to determine how these new recommendations will impact the local COVID-19 response.
“We need to remain vigilant and recognize the part all of us can play in limiting the spread of the coronavirus”, said Desi Fleming, Director of Fargo Cass Public Health. “Preventive measures to control the spread of COVID-19 have not changed. This means cleaning your hands often, avoiding close contact with individuals who are sick, staying home if you are sick, covering your cough and sneezes and cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces. Also, practice social distancing as recommended by the White House in order to minimize your risk of exposure.”
Symptoms for COVID-19 are similar to a variety of respiratory illnesses and can include a fever, cough and/or difficulty breathing. If you are experiencing these symptoms, you are asked to contact your primary healthcare provider.
“If you are experiencing respiratory symptoms and need to seek medical care, it is important to contact your healthcare provider in advance rather than just walking in”, said Fleming. “Contacting your healthcare provider ahead of time allows them to assess your need for care, and if you are directed to come in, they can plan for your arrival by taking appropriate measures to limit potential exposure to others.”
The NDDoH has established a COVID-19 hotline at 1-866- 207-2880. The hotline is active from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., seven days a week. NDDoH and CDC also offer a variety of resources including specialized guidance for specific areas:
Travelers and the travel industry
The response for COVID-19 is constantly changing and the local, state and national response will evolve to meet the challenges presented.
