Four weeks after the first confirmed coronavirus case, Merced County now has 90
The first confirmed coronavirus case in Merced County was reported on March 22. Four weeks later, there are now 90 confirmed cases in the county after three more confirmed cases were announced Sunday morning, according to the Merced County Department of Public Health.
Nearby Stanislaus County as of Saturday has reported a total of 221 confirmed coronavirus infections. That includes four deaths and 98 recoveries.
Sunday marked the four-week mark since the first COVID-19 case was confirmed in Merced County.
There are 59 Merced County residents who are currently infected with the virus, officials said, and there have been three deaths from complications due to the coronavirus. There have been 28 people who have recovered from the virus. Recovered is defined as being symptom free with no medication for 72 hours.
Based on information provided by the people who test positive, Public Health staff will continue to assess risks of exposure and contact any affected individuals.
In Merced County, there have been more women (50) infected with the virus than men (40). There have been 58 confirmed cases on people between the ages of 18 to 49. The second highest group (20) are people between the ages 50 to 64 years old.
Merced County announced Friday that the local stay-at-home order was amended to modified recreation in parks and golf courses, effective immediately.
“After careful consideration, in an effort to maintain physical and mental health during this stressful time, the Department feels it’s necessary to promote options for wellness while still adhering to the safety measures in the Health Officer order,” said Department of Public Health Director Dr. Rebecca Nanyonjo-Kemp in a news release.
However, residents must still prioritize social distancing and are encouraged to wear cloth face coverings, the release said.
The revised order allows for golf courses to resume under restrictions and an approved operational guideline. Pro-shops, driving ranges and any restaurants or bars located on-site must remain closed, according to the release.
Green open spaces at parks are now accessible to residents, along with park pathways, but picnic areas, BBQs, and other related facilities at parks remain closed.
This story was originally published April 19, 2020 at 12:41 PM.
