04/08/2020 – Ogle County has identified two more positive cases of novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Both individuals are in their 40s for a total of 15 cases in Ogle County.

"We are also saddened to report our first death by an individual in their 80s," emergency preparedness/health coordinator Cherie Rucker said in a press release Wednesday afternoon. "The Ogle County Health Department would like to express our deepest sympathy and condolences to the family. Further details about the individuals will not be released to protect the privacy of the individuals and their families. The individuals and their close contacts are being monitored by the Ogle County Health Department."

This case reinforces the importance of actions the public can take to protect themselves and prevent the spread in the community. The healthcare partners in Ogle County are working closely with IDPH, the CDC, and regional partners to monitor, respond, and help limit the spread of the disease.

"Unless it is an emergency, we advise individuals who think they may have COVID-19, or have had close contact with someone diagnosed or under evaluation for possible exposure, to stay home and call their healthcare provider for further direction," Rucker said.

Close contact means having been within 6 feet of that person for an extended time or being exposed to their cough or sneeze. Do not go to the emergency room, a walk-in clinic, health department, or to your doctor’s office. Call ahead and follow your healthcare provider’s instructions. Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough (or other cold or flu-like symptoms), difficulty breathing and/or shortness of breath.

What The Public Can Do:

• STAY CALM: You are not alone in this, your community is here to support you. Talk to your friends and family and let them know if you are having concerns.

• STAY APART: Keep at least 6 feet away from others.

• STAY PUT: Stay home, keep non-essential trips to a minimum. In an effort to slow down the spread of the COVID-19 disease, Governor J.B. Pritzker issued an order for Illinois residents to remain in their homes starting Saturday, March 21.  This state-wide order means residents will only be able to leave the house for basic needs, including visiting the doctor or buying groceries, medicine, gasoline or similar supplies.

For more information about coronavirus (COVID-19), and the latest updates and guidance please visit: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html or for local resources visit https://coronavirus-response-ogle.hub.arcgis.com/

For general questions about COVID-19, call the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) hotline at 1-800-889-3931 or email dph.sick@illinois.gov.