San Juan Basin Public Health reported the first confirmed case of COVID-19 in Archuleta County on Thursday.
The test result came from an adult resident of the county. The health department declined to release further details about the individual.
In line with best practices, health officials are identifying people who have been in contact with the individual during the onset of the infectious period.
“All known contacts are identified and informed of their contact status, and the importance of receiving early care if they develop symptoms,” according to a news release issued Thursday afternoon by SJBPH.
Individuals who are believed to have had contact with the infected person will be contacted directly by SJBPH staff.
People who have had contact with the individual will be provided with information about prevention of the disease. In some cases, quarantine or isolation is required for high-risk contacts, either at home or in a hospital.
“San Juan Basin Public Health expected that Archuleta County would see positive cases, and we imagine we will see more cases in the days to come,” said SJBPH Executive Director Liane Jollon. “All residents of Archuleta County are urged to make responsible choices to protect our community and stay at home, according the governor’s recent orders.”
La Plata County had four confirmed cases as of midday Thursday.