Mizell reports first case of COVID-19

Published 3:41 pm Tuesday, April 7, 2020

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Mizell Memorial Hospital on Tuesday received confirmation of its first positive case of COVID-19.

Covington County has five reported cases of the novel coronavirus, and ADPH reports that 60 people have been tested.

That means that around one in every 12 people tested positive.

Jana Wyatt, CEO of Mizell said that they are very pleased to report that the patient is doing well and has been discharged from the hospital.

“During the patient’s stay at Mizell, though test results were not confirmed until after discharge, appropriate protocols were followed for the protection of the patient and staff,” she said. “Patient visitation was suspended prior to the patient’s admission to the hospital further limiting potential spread of the virus. We are working closely with our local and state health officials and authorities to track down other potential persons who may have been in contact with the patient who may now be at risk.”

Wyatt said that realizing this news brings the threat “closer to home” for many, she wanted to take the opportunity to encourage everyone to follow the stay at home mandate issued by Gov. Kay Ivey on Friday.

“We also want to remind everyone that you can carry the virus without being symptomatic,” she said. “Please continue hand washing, social distancing, and other precautions recommended by the ADPH and CDC to keep yourselves and others healthy. It is our sincere hope that this patient will make a full recovery. We ask that you keep them, their family and the entire team in your prayers as we work together to keep our community safe and healthy.”