Six Kentuckians have now been diagnosed with COVID-19 after two additional positive tests came in on Monday.
Governor Andy Beshear says the new cases are in Harrison and Fayette counties, but did not elaborate with any additional details. Two other cases have been noted in Harrison County and others in Jefferson and Fayette counties.
The governor says the first coronavirus patient from Harrison County is improving and noted that she worked at the Cynthiana Walmart. Her coworkers are being isolated, but have not shown symptoms, according to the governor. Another person connected to that patient was the second case in Harrison County.
Officials have only said that one patient had a recent travel history and that means the illness is community spreading, making good hand-washing practices even more important to stay healthy.
Beshear says stay at home if you are sick and he’s urging employers to make accommodations for workers who are feeling ill.
He says the state is taking action to make coronavirus testing and treatment more financially accessible for residents on Medicaid and private insurance.
The governor notes that people over 60 years of age and those with pre-existing medical conditions are more likely to become sick.
Officials say just because Kentucky has more confirmed cases than some surrounding states, that doesn’t necessarily mean the commonwealth is being hit harder, as it’s likely Kentucky is being more aggressive in its testing than some others.
Kentuckians are still at a relatively low risk to contract coronavirus and Gov. Beshear reminded residents to remain calm and not panic.