Central District Health Department reports that as of 1400 hrs. 27th May there are 1,568 laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 in its area and 53 deaths. By county these are 1,482 cases and 40 deaths in Hall County, 60 cases and 13 deaths in Hamilton County, and 26 cases and zero deaths in Merrick County.

Central District Health Department (CDHD) reports 86 lab-confirmed COVID-19 cases as of 2 p.m. today. This includes 2 in Merrick County, 8 in Hamilton County, and 76 in Hall County.

The National Guard tested approximately 150 healthcare workers and symptomatic persons between yesterday and today. CDHD has been informed this afternoon that the National Guard will be able to perform approximately 300 more tests. CDHD is currently working with the National Guard to develop a plan for the additional testing now available.

Guidelines for discontinuing home isolation for people who have symptoms of COVID-19 are:

• You have had NO fever for at least 72 hours (3 days) without the use of medicine

AND

• Other symptoms have improved (ex: cough, shortness of breath)

AND

• At least 7 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.

The decision to stop home isolation should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider and state and local health departments. Local decisions depend on local circumstances. (Guidance from the CDC)