DeKalb County COVID-19 Cases Remains at 7 as 153 Others Test Negative

April 7, 2020
By: Dwayne Page

DeKalb County’s number of confirmed COVID-19 cases remains at 7. As of Tuesday April 7, the Tennessee Department of Health reports that 160 people have been tested with 153 negative results and 7 positive. There have been no deaths in DeKalb County from the virus.

“Governor Bill Lee last week issued a “stay at home” order stating that “every Tennessean must take this seriously, remain at home and ensure we save lives.” This order is in effect until April 14, 2020 at 11:59 p.m. We need to do our part as DeKalb Countians to adhere to Governor Lee’s “stay at home” order. Only go out if you have an essential activity,” said County Mayor Tim Stribling

“I cannot stress enough how serious this pandemic is and everyone needs to do their part in helping to limit the spread of the coronavirus. This virus has NO boundaries. Medical experts say the next two weeks are critical in trying to slow the spread. We can’t be doing the kinds of things we were doing a few months ago. Rethink your daily activities. Social distancing is crucial to limiting coronavirus’ spread. This means staying home as much as you can and minimizing contact with others. Wash hands frequently and thoroughly,” he said

The CDC is now recommending wearing a cloth mask when in public gatherings (grocery stores, pharmacies, etc.) if you are not able to social distance.

“Our EMTs, paramedics, law enforcement, firefighters, rescue squad, first responders all take a high risk when called upon. 911 has to have healthy staff to dispatch those calls. Our emergency services personnel can’t stay home including our doctors and nurses. Take a personal responsibility to limit the spread of COVID-19 so these professionals can continue to provide an essential service to our county with a full staff,” said Stribling.

“We will continue to work closely with the TN Department of Health and all agencies of government at all levels to minimize the impact on the residents of DeKalb County. That has been and continues to be our primary concern. We will get through this together as everyone takes a personal responsibility to do everything they can to protect our county,” he said

Individuals with specific questions can call the TDH Information line at 877-857-2945 or 931-646-7586.

For more information on COVID-19, please visit: https://www.tn.gov/health/cedep/ncov.html which also has a link to the Center for Disease Control website.

WJLE Radio