Idaho Falls Community Hospital is continuing to monitor and respond to COVID-19. Here is an update for Monday, March 16:

CONFIRMED CASES IN IDAHO

Five Idahoans have been diagnosed with COVID-19 as of Monday afternoon. None of the patients were from the Idaho Falls area. All but one of the patients is recovering at home. Everyone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19 is following strict quarantine guidelines to limit the risk of other Idahoans being exposed to the disease.

COVID-19 TESTING

As the Coronavirus spreads across the country, it is only natural that more people want to be tested. However, it is so important we save tests for the people who truly need them. If you do not have any of the symptoms associated with COVID-19, you do not need to be tested at this time.

The symptoms for COVID-19 include Fever AND one or more of the following:

• Dry cough
• Shortness of breath
• Difficulty breathing

Keep in mind, it is flu season and there are also lots of colds going around. If you are sick, try not to worry. It does not necessarily mean you have the coronavirus. Determine what symptoms you are experiencing and then call your doctor.

NEW PROTOCOLS FOR HOSPITAL VISITORS

The well-being of our patients, team members and community continues to be our top priority and we are taking extra measures to keep everyone safe. We appreciate your understanding and support during this time.

To help stop the potential spread of the disease, visitors coming to the hospital, as of Monday, will need to be at least 18 years of age or older. Additionally, we are strongly encouraging families and patients to limit visitors to one at a time.

Everyone who enters the hospital will have their temperature taken – this includes visitors and members of our own team. If anyone has a fever, we will ask them to return home. As always, if you feel like you have a cold, fever or other signs of illness, please wait to visit the hospital until you feel better. Our team and your loved one will appreciate the steps you are taking to keep them healthy.

If you have traveled to an area where there are multiple, confirmed cases of COVID-19, please wait 14 days before visiting the hospital.

Please continue to check our website for regular updates. We value your well-being and are committed to keeping you informed.