Paris, TN – Henry County Medical Center was notified by the Tennessee Department of Health that the individual in Tennessee who was tested for the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) has tested negative. This information was from the CDC. Henry County Medical Center will continue to be in contact with the TDH and CDC and other agencies to provide guidance to protect and inform our community.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, public health officials and partners are working hard to identify the source of the 2019-nCoV. Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses, some causing illness in people and others that circulate among animals, including camels, cats and bats. Early on, many of the patients in the outbreak in Wuhan, China reportedly had some link to a large seafood and animal market, suggesting the virus likely emerged from an animal source. Analysis of the genetic tree of this virus is ongoing to know the specific source of the virus.

The CDC recommends travelers avoid all nonessential travel to Wuhan City, China, where the new coronavirus was first identified. The CDC has reported 5 cases within the United States. However, it’s always good practice to take actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses including covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, and washing hands frequently with soap and water.

Individuals can help prevent the spread of illness by taking the following steps.

If you are planning to travel, explore the CDC Travelers’ Health website and learn how to stay healthy during your trip and prevent the spread of illness to others upon your return. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or utilize alcohol hand sanitizer.
Limit touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Try to avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Stay home if you are sick and avoid close contact with others.
Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze and throw away tissues.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

“Although the risk of the coronavirus virus remains low in our area, at HCMC, we are remaining vigilant to ensure the safest care for our patients, staff, and community,” says Jacki O’Brien, Director of Infection Prevention and Employee Health.

If you are concerned about your condition, please contact your medical provider. The CDC is providing updated information and guidance online at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html. Visit the site to learn about the number of confirmed cases and frequently asked questions.

HCMC will also have information on Frequently Asked Questions on our social media sites as well for people to visit and review.

Located in Paris, TN, Henry County Medical Center is a progressive, integrated healthcare organization committed to serving the healthcare needs of Henry County and the adjoining region. Including a 142-bed hospital and other facilities, the medical center provides a variety of outpatient services, as well as inpatient care. Henry County Medical Center is a county-owned and operated nonprofit institution. For more information: www.hcmc-tn.org.