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Child under age of 10 tests positive for coronavirus in Gloucester

Officials from the Three Rivers Health District confirmed that a child under the age of 10 in Gloucester tested positive for COVID-19.

GLOUCESTER, Va. — Health officials announced on Thursday that a child in Gloucester tested positive for COVID-19.

This case is the first one in the Three Rivers Health District. The patient, who is younger than 10 years old, was seen at a pediatric medical practice in Gloucester and is currently at home recovering.

The possibility of community spread is being investigated.

“A contact list has been developed, the patient has been isolated and we are working to prevent further exposures,” Three Rivers Health District Director Dr. Richard Williams said. “We are doing our best to keep everyone safe. We will work hard and tirelessly during this pandemic crisis to try our best to keep the public safe.”

Dr. Williams said the list of potential contacts is very manageable.

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The Virginia Department of Health reports there are 94 cases in the state as of March 19. There are 14 cases in James City County, four in Virginia Beach, as well as one each in Williamsburg and York County.

The Norfolk Department of Health also confirmed a man in his 50s tested positive for COVID-19 in the city of Norfolk.

“Given the nature of the current outbreak, discovering COVID-19 in our community does not come as a surprise and we expect to see more cases in the coming weeks,” Williams said. “The Public Health Department is in close communication with the family and health professionals involved, and is conducting a thorough investigation of potential exposures.”

Gloucester County officials are in direct communication with the Virginia Department of Health, and just like Dr. Williams, they're reiterating practices like social distancing.  

Three Rivers Health District has also activated a public information line, 804-313-1638, for questions from residents about the novel coronavirus situation.

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