FRANKLIN COUNTY, IL- Franklin-Williamson Bi-County Health Department has been notified that a Franklin County resident tested positive for Coronavirus (COVID-19). The individual, a woman in her 50’s, is recovering and is at home on isolation. This is the first laboratory confirmed positive case of COVID-19 in Franklin County. The individual is thought to have been exposed to the novel coronavirus through community spread.

Public health officials have begun an investigation of this case, speaking with individuals who she may have been in contact with before being diagnosed. As is protocol, public health officials may place other individuals on home quarantine if they are determined to have had significant exposure. Such individuals may not by symptomatic, but are quarantined for a period of time which allows symptoms to develop and pass, without posing risk to others. If you are contacted by public health officials, please respond promptly.

The number of COVID-19 cases in Illinois has risen dramatically over the past week.

We can expect more cases to be confirmed locally, as the number of tests being conducted is increasing. The number of cases can be reduced by adhering to public health guidance on social distancing, washing hands frequently, disinfecting commonly touched surfaces, and staying home when you are ill.
COVID-19 shares many symptoms with more common respiratory diseases. If you have a fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, call your healthcare provider for further guidance. Stay up to date on the latest with the COVID-19 pandemic at DPH.ILLINOIS.GOV.