Lexington Medical Center continues to monitor the latest developments with the 2019 novel coronavirus called COVID-19 and referred to as coronavirus. A multidisciplinary team of clinicians and hospital leaders meets regularly to discuss updated information about the virus, evaluate appropriate responses, and establish plans for treatment. Lexington Medical Center is ready to provide the best care to patients and community members.

We do not currently have any admitted patients with a positive diagnosis, nor have we seen a surge in cases at our facilities at this time. Over the weekend, we did have a visitor to our Emergency department who was tested and treated with presumptive positive novel coronavirus, (COVID-19). This case was confirmed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, and the patient is currently at home under quarantine.

We are taking precautionary steps to provide the best care to our patients and community members. Out of an abundance of caution, Lexington Medical Center has set up a new triage area in its Emergency department on the hospital campus in West Columbia. Patients arriving for treatment at the ER who are exhibiting respiratory symptoms including fever, cough and shortness of breath will be screened in a tented area outside of the entrance. Then, they will receive treatment inside the ER in an area dedicated to treating patients with these symptoms.

Again, it is important to note there is no surge in coronavirus cases at Lexington Medical Center at this time. The tent is simply a precautionary measure and adds a proactive level of protection if needed in the future. Lexington Medical Center is committed to doing everything possible to protect patients, staff and community members.

In addition to coronavirus, Lexington Medical Center continues to monitor the latest information about the active flu season we are experiencing. Visitors should not come to Lexington Medical Center if they have a fever, cough, sore throat or shortness of breath. These precautions are necessary for their protection and to help us keep our patients safe.

While a new type of illness can be scary, community members can protect themselves by following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations for preventing respiratory illnesses. These include:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. And, always wash your hands with soap and water if they are visibly dirty.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
• Stay home when you’re sick.
• Cough or sneeze into your elbow or use a tissue and put it in the trash immediately.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Get the influenza vaccine.

The most up-to-date information on the coronavirus can be found on the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention websites at www.scdhec.gov and www.cdc.gov.