Yesterday, Montgomery County officials and the Office of Public Health (OPH) announced the first two presumptive positive cases of 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Montgomery County.

From the press release:

The individuals are adult male and female patients who reside in the eastern and western parts of the County. Both individuals have mild symptoms and are currently in isolation at home. Each was exposed to the virus while traveling in an area of the United States where COVID-19 is present. The OPH is continuing to monitor the patients and identifying anyone who may have been in close contact. No other details about the patients will be released to protect their privacy.

“Montgomery County officials have been preparing for the eventuality of COVID-19 within the County, and are taking the appropriate steps. I want to remind everyone to follow the CDC COVID-19 prevention guidelines, and if you have symptoms stay at home and call your healthcare provider,” said Dr. Valerie A. Arkoosh, Chair of the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners.

Coronavirus is a family of viruses that include the common cold and can cause respiratory illnesses like pneumonia. Transmission occurs via respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing or touching a surface that has come in contact with the droplets. Symptoms include fever, cough, and trouble breathing and can appear anywhere from two to fourteen days after exposure.

Montgomery County health officials remind residents that they should take the following steps to reduce the risk of becoming infected by COVID-19: cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing with either a tissue or your elbow, wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, stay home when sick and avoid close contact with people who are ill.

You can find the latest information from the county here.