Fairbanks, Alaska  (March 17, 2020) - Foundation Health Partners (FHP), after notification from the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS), announces one additional positive case of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Fairbanks.  Two cases ere announced last evening, bringing the total number of positive cases in Fairbanks to three.

The hospital was notified this evening of the positive test results by Alaska State Public Health Laboratory in Fairbanks. This patient was tested at First Care.

This individual is a female who recently traveled and she self-isolated prior to testing. This patient has been notified and is in stable condition and does not require hospitalization.

FHP will continue to work closely with DHSS to identify any contacts that are associated with this patient to minimize risk of exposure to others.  State and public health officials are working with the hospital to detect any new possible cases of the disease connected to this individual.  We will continue to inform the public of any additional cases.

“It is important for the community to take precautions against spread of the virus.” said Shelley Ebenal, CEO of FHP.  “You must self-isolate if you are experiencing any symptoms, such as a fever or cough.  If these symptoms include shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, please call your health care provider.  It is important to exercise proper hand washing and sanitizing.”  

If you have medical concerns, FHP has set up a hotline for anyone that has questions about their symptoms or the COVID-19 virus.  (907) 458-2888. 

For the most current information regarding the coronavirus, including the best way to protect yourself, visit the World Health Organization’s (WHO) website https://www.who.int, or the CDC https://www.cdc.gov/.  

Up to the minute information on Alaska can be found on at the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services website coronavirus.alaska.gov.