Biloxi identifies positive Coronavirus case
Merit Health in Biloxi announced this morning that a patient has been confirmed as having Cornoavirus, also known as COVID-19.
The hospital's statement:
"For the last several days, our hospital has been working collaboratively with the Mississippi State Department of Health while testing was completed for a patient who presented our facility with risk factors and symptoms consistent with those associated with novel Coronavirus. The test results have confirmed the patient has COVID-19.
"Since identifying the patient as potentially having COVID-19, the individual has been separated from other patients in an appropriate infection isolation room which only a small team of caregivers can access. In coordination with the Department of Health, the patient remains in our care in isolation to avoid contact and exposure with other patients.
"Our hospital continually works to ensure preparedness for all types of infectious diseases. We are well prepared to support this patient during testing and treatment, and to continue providing medical care for all patients in our care while protecting the safety of our caregiving team and other patients. We take seriously our role in helping to keep our community healthy, and we appreciate the agencies that are assisting us."
Keesler seeks to limit base traffic
Keesler Air Force Base is asking retirees and veterans to limit travel to the base for essential medical appointment only.
"Keeping our training pipeline open is essential to the success of our Air Force," said Col. Heather Blackwell, commander of the 81st Training Wing. "Stopping the spread of this virus will enable us to continue to execute our mission."
News & notes: Scheduling revisions
No breakfast: The Biloxi Chamber has announced that the Breakfast with the Mayor scheduled for April 1 at IP Casino Resort has been moved to June 23. The event scheduled for May 20 at Edgewater Mall remains scheduled at this time, the chamber said.
Summer camp: The city has canceled its summer camp.
County closures: Harrison County has announced that the 2020 Easter Egg hunt has been canceled, and closed are the county fairgrounds, community and civic centers and recreational facilities.
Released by Vincent Creel and Cecilia Dobbs Walton