Cape Cod Coronavirus: Resident Tests Positive

HYANNIS, MA — A Cape Cod resident has tested positive for the new coronavirus, according to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. This was the first presumptive postive COVID-19 test to come back in Barnstable County.

The patient was hospitalized Friday at a Cape Cod Healthcare hospital with respiratory symptoms, hospital officials confirmed.

Hospital officials said the patient will remain in their care until they are stable and can return home for the remainder of the CDC recommended quarantine period of 14 days.

"Cape Cod Healthcare is taking every necessary precaution to keep our patients and community safe," Michael Lauf, CEO of Cape Cod Healthcare, said in. “We strongly encourage the community to continue educate themselves by visiting www.capecodhealthcare.org/coronavirus and practice an abundance of caution and common sense during this time to limit the spread of this illness. We are ready to support the needs of our community, but we will need everyone's help and support in this process."

Hospital officials encouraged the community to take infection prevention precautions: avoiding contact with people who are sick, covering coughs and sneezes, proper hand-washing, cleaning of frequently used services and staying home when sick. If you are experiencing symptoms, including fever, coughing and shortness of breath, please call your primary care provider before arriving at a health care facility. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.