San Andreas, CA…On Friday, July 24, 2020 Calaveras Public Health reported five new cases of COVID-19 in Calaveras County. The additional cases include three females between 18 to 49 years of age, one male between 50 to 64 years of age, and one male over the age of 65. Districts 2, 4, and 5 each had one case. Two cases were reported in District 3. No new cases were reported from District 1.

“The virus easily spreads among people who are in close contact with each other. Local businesses and people in Calaveras County must do their part to slow the spread of COVID-19. Wear a face covering when you must go out,” said Dr. Dean Kelaita, Calaveras County Health Officer. “Face coverings block the amount of virus that gets released into the air when an infected person speaks, coughs, or sneezes. You can also slow the spread by getting tested or staying home if you are sick except to get medical care.”

To date, Calaveras Public Health has reported ninety-nine confirmed cases of COVID-19. Of those cases, forty-four cases have since recovered. Fifty-four cases remain active. There has been one reported death related to COVID-19 in Calaveras County.

The best ways to avoid exposure to the virus are to:
 Stay home as much as you can
 Stay at least 6 feet away from people outside of your household
 Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
 Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
 Wear a face covering over your nose and mouth when around others

Calaveras Public Health staff continues to investigate new cases to determine any possible persons who may have had close personal contact with the positive individuals. Close contacts may be contacted by the health department, assessed and monitored for signs and symptoms of COVID-19 illness.

Symptoms can appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms may have COVID-19:
 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

Look for emergency warning signs for COVID-19. If someone is showing signs, seek emergency care immediately:
 Trouble breathing
 New confusion or weakness
 Bluish lips or face
 Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
 Inability to wake or stay awake

No-cost testing for COVID-19 is available to anyone who would like to get tested. The OptumServe COVID-19 testing site located at the Calaveras County Fairgrounds is open Tuesday-Saturday from 7:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. Testing is now available to those age 3 and older. People are highly encouraged to register online. People without Internet access should call (888) 634-1123.

To receive information and resources related to COVID-19 visit the Calaveras County COVID-19 website.