Positive Test for COVID-19 at Sarah Bush Lincoln

A person tested at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center has come back positive for the COVID-19 virus.

The Illinois Department of Public Health notified Sarah Bush Lincoln Friday evening of the positive test. Hospital Director of Public Relations Patty Peterson confirmed the person resides in Sarah Bush Lincoln's 10-county service area and is self-quarantined. The Illinois Department of Public Health daily update has indicated the person is a man in his 70s from Cumberland County.

Peterson's statement indicates the ER staff knew the patient was coming to the hospital, and that the patient was met in the parking lot, was provided personal protective equipment, and was taken through a back entrance to avoid contact with people in the ER reception area. The person went home once the test was completed.

Sarah Bush Lincoln's 10-county service area includes: Coles, Cumberland, Clark, Douglas, Edgar, Effingham, Fayette, Jasper, Moultrie and Shelby.

Peterson said that other people have been tested in recent days, but this is the only positive result.

Peterson also announced that Sarah Bush Lincoln visitor restrictions have changed. Patients will be allowed only one support person during a clinic or hospital visit. If additional family members are involved in the care, they can be informed about the care via a phone call. The SBL phone number is 217-258-2525.