NEW ORLEANS — Louisiana health officials say the number of coronavirus cases in the state has now topped 100.
The Louisiana Department of Public Health says there are 114 cases, with 79 of those in Orleans Parish. Two people have died in Louisiana due to COVID-19, the deadly respiratory disease caused by the virus.
For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illnesses including pneumonia.
The vast majority of people are expected to recover from the new virus
What to do if you are sick:
Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. These symptoms may appear 2 to 14 days after exposure.
If you recently traveled to an area affected by COVID-19 transmission, and you feel sick, stay home and call your doctor immediately. Do not go to the doctor without calling first.
If you have a fever, cough, or shortness of breath, call your primary care provider. If you do not have a primary care provider, call the Louisiana Department of Health hotline at 1-855-523-2652.
If you are severely ill and you think you need to go to the hospital, call 9-1-1 or go to an emergency room.
Coronavirus Outbreak in Louisiana
There are 114 state-confirmed cases of coronavirus in the state of Louisiana. The state has completed 302 tests. Two people have died from COVID-19.
The LDH said it could not disclose information about the patients due to privacy laws.
New Orleans Health Department Director Dr. Jennifer Avegno said that the new coronavirus is spreading faster in New Orleans than other cities across the country.
Schools are Closed:
On Friday, Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards announced that all K-12 public schools in the state will be closed through April 13.
Most, if not all, universities in the state announced that they were canceling in-person classes and moving to online instruction.
Large Gatherings Banned
In the same order halting classes at public schools, Gov. Edwards also banned large gatherings with more than 250 people. The ban was in accordance with social distancing guidelines with the Center for Disease Control
How to Prevent the Spread
The virus is thought to spread between people in close contact (within 6 feet) and through droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
To prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Wash hands with soap and water often or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Especially wash hands after going to the bathroom, before eating and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Stay home if you feel sick to prevent the spread of germs.
- Cover your cough with your elbow to prevent the spread of germs.
Treatments for COVID-19
There are no medications specifically approved for COVID-19. People with coronavirus should be treated with supportive care to help relieve symptoms.
Some severe cases require going to the hospital, particularly in the elderly or those with underlying medical conditions.
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