SANDPOINT — While Idaho’s risk for the coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, is thought to be low, if the virus does make its way to the community, Bonner General Health officials say they are ready.

The hospital and its staff are working with local and regional partners to prepare for the coronavirus. Bonner General has, is and will continue to follow CDC guidelines for the virus and has identified contained areas for infected patients, prepared with appropriate supplies at this time, continued education with all staff, Erin Binnall, community development manager for Bonner General Health and Foundation, told the Daily Bee.

“Our priority is for the safety and well-being of our patients, their families, and our staff,” Binnall said.

The hospital initiated incident command effective Feb. 27, a procedure designed and intended for the use in both emergency and non-emergency situations, said Binnall.

“Incident command provides hospitals and health care facilities of all sizes with tools needed to advance emergency preparedness and response capability,” Binnall said. “Incident command is also designed to allow personnel from different agencies or departments to be integrated into a common structure that can effectively address issues and delegate responsibilities.”

If suspected coronavirus exposure or coronavirus cases were reported, Binnall said the hospital is ready. “This is all about isolation concepts that BGH clinical and ancillary staffs practice routinely,” she said.

With the flu making its rounds in the region and with daily reports of coronavirus in the Pacific Northwest, Binnall said it’s a good time to be vigilant with personal hygiene, including hand washing, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue and staying home if you are sick.

Symptoms may appear between two and 14 days after exposure to the virus and include fever — greater than 101 degrees Fahrenheit and lower respiratory illness — a new cough, new shortness of breath and difficulty breathing. Individuals are also at risk if they have traveled to affected areas within the previous 14 days or have had close contact with a lab-confirmed COVID-19 patient within the previous 14 days

If people believe they have COVID-19 based on meeting the criteria and need emergency care, Binnall said they should call the emergency department first at 208 265-1020.

“Avoid the emergency room unless it’s essential,” she said. “The emergency room is trying to limit any possible exposure and continues to serve our community. Stay home if you’re sick — even if symptoms are mild.”

Most of those who get COVID-19, will have mild illness. Binnall said not everyone needs to be tested and testing is not yet widely available. The hospital is “actively working on plans to care for patients with severe coronavirus,” she said.

While using a facemask is a personal choice people make, or may be advised to do so by their primary care provider, Binnall said CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear one to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19.

“Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others,” she said. “The use of facemasks is also crucial for health care workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings — at home or in a health care facility.”

If people think they have been exposed to the virus, or they think their symptoms match, Binnall said their best course of action is to stay home and call Panhandle Health District.

Like Newport Hospital and Health Services in Newport, Wash., Bonner General also is screening patients at points of entry and following CDC guidelines. However, unlike NHHS which is restricting access to certain high risk areas, Binnall said the Sandpoint hospital is not currently restricting access. Instead, visitors are asked to stay home if they don’t feel well.

“As of last report, the state of Idaho has no confirmed cases of coronavirus. This is a rapidly evolving situation, things can change on a minute-to-minute basis,” she said. “Currently, we have not restricted access; however, our current practice is to ask visitors to stay home if they have cough, flu-like symptoms, and fever.”

If folks have questions about COVID-19 or want to know more about how to prevent getting sick, whether it is the flu or COVID-19, Binnall said the best source for information is the Centers for Disease Control at cdc.gov or Panhandle Health District. The health district has activated an information call center for the public to help answer questions regarding the coronavirus situation.. That center is open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. and can be reached at 877-415-5225.

“Bonner General Health is committed to the safety of our community and will continue to keep everyone informed as the situation evolves,” she said. “Please check our Facebook page for all current updates.”

Caroline Lobsinger can be reached by email at clobsinger@bonnercountydailybee.com and follow her on Twitter @CarolDailyBee.