There are now 18 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Kentucky and Governor Andy Beshear on Saturday afternoon announced additional steps to prevent the spread of the virus.
Six of the cases are in Harrison County, four are in Jefferson, five in Fayette and one each in Nelson, Montgomery and Bourbon County. At least two of the patients who were in hospitals have been released and one patient who also has other health conditions is in grave condition, according to the governor. A vast majority of patients make a full recovery—with those over 60 and those with pre-exiting medical conditions the most vulnerable to the virus.
Among the most drastic measures announced, the administration is asking hospitals to cease elective procedures by close of business Wednesday, though hospitals will retain discretion on what is elective and what’s necessary.
He’s also advising childcare facilities to prepare to close within 72 hours, if the action is deemed necessary.
Governor Beshear says the Nelson County patient refused to self-isolate after a positive test, so he has been forced to quarantine at home with a law enforcement officer outside.
There are still not enough tests available for everyone who wants to be tested to receive one, but Beshear says health officials hope that will be possible in the near future.
Grocery stores are running out of staple products and everyday necessities and the governor is urging people to not hoard more supplies than they need out of fear.
He again reminded Kentuckians to use good hygiene and hand-washing practices and is advising for all community gatherings to be canceled or postponed.
The governor says it’s unknown how long these steps will be necessary, but it will depend on how effective Kentuckians are in curbing a spike in the virus. The Kentucky state hotline for anyone who is nervous about COVID-19 or those who are ill and would have not sought treatment if not for concerns over coronavirus is 1-800-722-5725.
Locally, Hopkinsville Electric System announced Saturday they will be serving customers at their drive-through window only out of an abundance of caution beginning Monday, as the lobby will be closed to the public. Customers will also be able to make payments by phone and on the HES website.
Fort Campbell schools will now close Monday, lasting through at least March 27.
The Hopkinsville Police Department has closed its lobby to the public and is changing some of its procedures. Officers will take reports of some crimes that are no longer in progress, such as thefts, over the phone instead of responding in person. HPD reaffirms that officers are still on patrol and will respond in person to all calls of incidents in progress. Anyone who needs a copy of an incident or accident report can call HPD and request one through the mail or by email.
There are 32 cases of COVID 19 in Tennessee, with 14 of those in the Metro Nashville-Davidson County area.