Coronavirus outbreak causes North Mississippi Regional Center, others to take preventative measures
Published 11:10 am Wednesday, March 11, 2020
As of Wednesday, there were still zero confirmed cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) in Mississippi, but that is not stopping healthcare facilities from taking preventative measures.
The North Mississippi Regional Center implemented a self-imposed quarantine on the recommendation of the Mississippi State Department of Health to take precautions in preventing the spread of COVID-19. The recommendation came on March 9, following the confirmed case of coronavirus in Shelby County, Tenn.
“At this time, NMRC has temporarily suspended all off-campus visitors as a precautionary measure,” NMRC public information director B.J. Davis said in a statement to the EAGLE. “NMRC’s main concern is to keep the clients safe and healthy, and we will continue to actively observe the situation and will continue to coordinate with local and state agencies.”
As of Tuesday, the Mississippi Department of Health announced 20 people were tested for coronavirus, and all came back negative. They still recommend anyone with flu-like symptoms, especially those who are older or in poor health, should see a healthcare provider as a matter of general good health.
Going along with NMRC, Oxford Health and Rehab also implemented a no visitor policy on Monday. The nursing home added they have not had any reported incidents related to the coronavirus, but simply taking preventative measures.
“In an effort to protect our residents and in accordance with recommendations from the CDC and CMS, Advanced Healthcare Management has temporarily implemented a NO VISITOR policy in all of our affiliate facilities,” a post read on Oxford Health and Rehab’s Facebook page. “This is a precautionary measure to keep our residents healthy and safe. We have had no reported incidence of Coronavirus. In addition, we have heightened infection control efforts with Coronavirus prevention protocols and will continue to be diligent in staff and resident education.”
The City of Oxford has created a coronavirus update page with links to the Department of Health’s COVID-19 page, as well as video updates from Mayor Robyn Tannehill. The page can be accessed by visiting oxfordms.net.