The first reported positive test for coronavirus (COVID-19) for Baxter County was not a patient at Baxter Regional Medical Center.
Officials said late Friday night, “Baxter Regional can confirm that they have not yet treated a patient who has a lab-confirmed case of COVID-19.”
The Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) updated its live coronavirus map Friday night at approximately 7:15, indicating Baxter County’s first positive test. The county continues to be listed with one to four positive tests, with ADH listing 10 negative tests.
Hospital officials say they been expecting a positive test all week.
“Baxter Regional has been preparing for weeks for this pandemic and has taken all necessary actions to ensure the health and wellbeing of our patients, visitors, physician and staff,” officials say. “We will be on the front lines providing high-quality, safe and compassionate care. We encourage everyone to continue taking the steps to protect themselves and others.”
The incubation time for coronavirus is two to 14 days, before those infected begin to fell symptoms. While asymptomatic, those infected will spread the virus through aerosolized droplets while coughing and sneezing.
Symptoms of corona virus/COVID-19 include fever, coughing and shortness of breath, according to the Arkansas Department of Health.
Baxter Regional says if you believe you may have coronavirus, do not go to the hospital or a physician clinic. Stay home, call your primary physician or the Baxter Regional COVID-19 Hotline (870-508-7001 available daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.) and avoid contact with others.
Arkansas has at least 386 cases of COVID-19, the illness caused by coronavirus, and three deaths. For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, which can include fever and cough, but also milder cases of pneumonia, sometimes requiring hospitalization. The risk of death is greater for older adults and people with other health problems.
The Department of Health says emergency warning signs for COVID-19 that require medical attention immediately include, but are not limited to: trouble breathing; persistent pain or pressure in the chest; new confusion or inability to arouse; and bluish lips or face.
Baxter Regional reminds the public several coronavirus hotlines have been set up for people who have questions or feel they may have symptoms:
- Baxter Regional COVID-19 Hotline: (870) 508-7001, available daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- UAMS Health COVID-19 Hotline: 1-800-632-4502
- Arkansas Children’s Hospital: 1-800-743-3616. If your child is exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19, call to speak with an ACH nurse. Nursing staff will be available for questions and phone screenings 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- Arkansas Department of Health: Call 1-800-803-7847 or email ADH.CoronaVirus@arkansas.gov during normal business hours (8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.). Call 1-800-554-5738 after normal business hours for urgent calls needing immediate response.
Baxter Regional advises all Twin Lakes Area residents to adhere to the following recommendations:
- Listen to and follow the directions of your state and local authorities
- If you feel sick, stay home. Do not go to work. Contact your medical provider
- If your children are sick, keep them at home. Contact your medical provider
- If someone in your household has tested positive for the Coronavirus, keep the entire household at home
- If you are elderly, stay home and away from other people.
- If you are a person with a serious underlying health condition — such as a significant heart or lung problem — stay home and away from other people.
The public should continue practicing strict personal hygiene, including washing hands regularly for at least 20 seconds at a time and wiping down surfaces in the home often.
Baxter Regional reminds the public that all must adjust to the reality that COVID-19 is here in our community.
Visit www.baxterregional.org/coronavirus for the latest local updates from Baxter Regional Medical Center.