Holding at zero cases

By CHANSE WATSON

Managing Editor

KELLOGG — One stay-home order down, one to go (maybe).

It’s been just over three weeks since Idaho Gov. Brad Little instituted his first major order in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. In that time, local medical officials across the panhandle have been able to identify 53 known cases of the virus — 49 in Kootenai County and four in Bonner.

The remaining, more rural, panhandle counties of Shoshone, Benewah and Boundary have continued their streak of being coronavirus free (at least, officially).

Dr. David Lawhorn with Shoshone Medical Center is pleased that not only have all the tests on Shoshone County residents come back negative, but there also seems to be a decrease in the amount of residents calling in with symptoms (regardless of illness).

“I think this may well be reflective of the majority of the community members taking things seriously,” he said. “My hope is that we are just far enough ahead of the curve with a good community response that we may really be able to restrict cases in the Silver Valley.”

While SMC is not releasing the number of people they have tested in-house, due to the number being incomplete with other facility numbers, COVID-19 testing has been and still is being carried out locally.

Tests are still largely being reserved for those who exhibit symptoms, classify as “high-risk” and have a doctor’s order. Individuals that classify as high-risk include the elderly and/or people with preexisting conditions. Around 80% of those who contract COVID-19 show little or no symptoms, even after the 2-14 day exposure period.

According to PHD, symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough and shortness of breath. People have reported mild to severe respiratory illness with fever, cough and difficulty breathing.

Dr. Lawhorn stresses that while things remain calm now, it is still very possible that an outbreak could occur in the Silver Valley.

“People should continue to be vigilant in their efforts to use sanitizers, maintain social distancing and wear masks where appropriate.”

This advice also applies if you or someone you know is going outside to enjoy the new spring weather.