The Chautauqua County Department of Health and Human Services today confirmed that Brooks-TLC Hospital System, Inc. had a positive COVID-19 result that came back on a patient who was evaluated at the hospital Emergency Department.

Details of Brooks-TLC’s first coronavirus case:

• The patient was assessed and discharged with instructions from the county health department to isolate/quarantine at home.

• The patient was appropriately screened on arrival and measures were implemented to reduce risk of exposure during triage.

• The hospital staff who treated the patient used all the appropriate measures to avoid potential exposure to the virus. This includes use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

• Brooks-TLC is working closely with the local county health department utilizing guidelines from the New York State Department of Health as well as Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Early in March, Brooks-TLC established an organization-wide coronavirus incident command center operation to address this pandemic. The group has been meeting several times daily, coordinating emergency preparedness, response efforts, as well as daily communication with federal, state and county agencies.

Considering the national shortage on personal protective equipment (PPE), the team has been focused on supply management and potential mitigation strategies.

If it is determined by the CCDHHS that someone came in contact with an individual who tested positive for COVID-19, he or she will be notified by that County agency, not the hospital or health system. Brooks-TLC’s website has more information on the coronavirus at www.brookshospital.org.

The county department also recommends if you get sick with fever — 100 F/38C or higher, cough, or have trouble breathing:

• First, call your healthcare provider and explain your symptoms.

• Avoid contact with others. Stay home when you are sick.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surface.

• Before seeking health care, call ahead to the facility and tell them your situation. They will give you instructions on how to get care without exposing other people to your illness

• For testing information, please call your healthcare provider. Communications have been sent to healthcare providers regarding testing guidelines.

• Your health-care provider will need to determine whether or not you need to be tested. If your healthcare provider approves your testing, your provider — not you — will contact the county Health Department.