Officials from the ISDH announced the first confirmed case of COVID-19, the recent strain of coronavirus, in Indiana today. The patient is an adult from Marion County who traveled to Boston, where the virus was likely spread by others who have tested positive. The patient returned to Indiana on March 4 and was admitted to Community North hospital last night.

Although the patient did not have contact with others at the hospital, at least 35 individuals around the state are being monitored for exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19.

Governor Eric Holcomb declared a public health emergency as a response to the first case.

The ISDH has reiterated the findings of the WHO related to the virus. Symptoms may include a runny nose, sore throat, cough, fever and, in extreme cases, difficulty breathing. There are over 100,300 cases of the virus worldwide, and the mortality rate is 3%.

According to the ISDH, the risk to Hoosiers as a whole is low, but individuals who suspect they may have COVID-19 should call a hospital. Additionally, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) has asked citizens to take preventative measures including: washing hands thoroughly, avoiding contact with face, avoiding close contact with those who are sick, staying home when sick, covering one’s cough, and regularly disinfecting surfaces with wipes.

Finally, the U.S. Surgeon General issued a tweet urging people to refrain from buying masks, as they are not effective in preventing the spread of the disease for the general public; however, they are essential for the healthcare providers treating the disease.

If you believe you are at risk for COVID-19 or have contracted the virus, please contact medical professionals immediately and follow the advice of the CDC, ISDH, and WHO.

Update: A second person living in Hendricks County has tested positive for coronavirus. According to the ISDH, the individual traveled to Boston on March 2. The patient is currently in isolation with mild symptoms. Avon Schools have closed for two weeks after a third person tested positive for coronavirus: a student at Hickory Elementary.

As of Wednesday, Mar. 11 at 2:44 p.m., 10 total cases have been confirmed in Indiana, with three in Johnson County.

Update: Late in the evening of Wednesday, Mar. 11, two more cases were confirmed with one in Marion County and the other in St. Joseph County. This brings the total cases in Indiana to 12. 

Update: Center Grove has canceled in-person classes for next week. All students will be doing E-learning on Thursday, March 19 and Friday, March 20.

Superintendent Richard Arkanoff released the following message on Friday, Mar. 6. The following information may be out of date and it is recommended you turn to the most updated sources regarding the number of cases.