MARION COUNTY — The Marion County Health Department announced Friday the county’s third positive test for COVID-19.

According to Melissa Mallow, Administrator of the Marion County Health Department, the individual is a female in her 70s and is doing well in at-home isolation.

Public health officials have begun an investigation of this case, speaking with individuals who may have come into contact with the patient before her diagnosis.

Through the investigation, public health may place other individuals on home quarantine if they are determined to have had significant exposure.

Such individuals may not be symptomatic but are quarantined for a period of time which allows symptoms to develop and pass, without posing risk to others. If you are contacted by public health officials, please respond promptly.

The number of COVID-19 cases in Illinois has risen dramatically over the past week. According to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), there are 7,695 cases of confirmed COVID-19 in the state. There are now three confirmed positive cases in Marion County.

More cases to be confirmed locally, as the number of tests being conducted is increasing. The number of cases can be reduced by adhering to public health guidance on social distancing, washing hands frequently, disinfecting commonly touched surfaces, and staying home when you are ill.

COVID-19 shares many symptoms with more common respiratory diseases. If you have a fever, cough or difficulty breathing, call your health care provider for further guidance. In addition, St, Mary’s Hospital (SSM) has established a free virtual COVID-19 evaluation online at ssmhealth.com.