First confirmed case of COVID-19 in Whitman County

Young woman is recovered, self-isolating; officials say risk of exposure is increasing

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EMMA LEDBETTER, Evergreen news editor

The first confirmed case of COVID-19 in Whitman County was identified Sunday morning, said Troy Henderson, director of Whitman County Health Department.

The patient is a woman in her 20s and is in good health, Henderson said. 

According to a press release from Whitman County Emergency Operations Center, the patient has recovered and is currently self-isolated at home. Officials are working to identify people who may have been in contact with her recently.

The risk of exposure in Whitman County is increasing and officials expect the number of confirmed cases to increase in coming days, according to the press release.

People who are most at risk are those coming from areas with high rates of community transmission, according to the press release. 

It is important for people to call their provider ahead of time before seeking treatment if they are experiencing symptoms or think they have been exposed, according to the press release. Symptoms include fever, cough and shortness of breath.

The patient is the only confirmed case of COVID-19 in Whitman County right now, Henderson said.