With the announcement of the first confirmed case of COVID-19 in Indiana this past Friday, Hoosiers should know that hospitals are prepared. Hospitals actively participate in infection control efforts, regional patient safety coalitions, and in Indiana’s public health preparedness districts. These networks serve us well in responding to any public health emergency across the health care continuum in partnership with federal, state, and local agencies.

Every hospital has already been preparing for this development by collaborating with state and local partners. We are fortunate to have leaders in Governor Holcomb’s administration like State Health Commissioner Dr. Kris Box, who has been working tirelessly with stakeholders in anticipation of this possibility.

Officials at Cameron Memorial Hospital, and officials from the Indiana State Department of Health are urging Hoosiers to take an active role in prevention of all contagious diseases, including influenza. Actions everyone can take include, but are not limited to, vaccination, good hygiene practices, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when ill. The Indiana Hospital Association recommends those looking for resources to utilize the Indiana State Department of Health’s dedicated webpage or CDC guidance to learn more.