Mississippi reports first positive case of new coronavirus
Published 8:11 pm Wednesday, March 11, 2020
The Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) reported its first presumptive positive case of coronavirus or COVID-19 Wednesday evening. Final verification will come from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
MSDH report in a news release Wednesday the individual is a Forrest county adult male who recently traveled to Florida. After confirmation by the Mississippi State Department of Health’s Public Health Laboratory, the patient voluntarily has isolated himself at home to prevent further transmission to others. The patient has not been hospitalized.
MSDH officials say they are conducting further investigation into the case to limit spread of the virus.
Governor Tate Reeves is fully aware of the situation and remains in close contact with the State Health Officer for all elements of COVID-19 response, the MSDH statement said
State Health Officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs will release additional information and guidelines 11 a.m. Thursday press conference.