Kootenai County, ID: Following the evening briefing of the Kootenai County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Unified Command, today’s report shows no new cases of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in the Panhandle Health District. This keeps our current total at 45, with 42 in Kootenai County and three in Bonner County.
Additionally, 14 of the above mentioned cases are no longer being monitored. This is defined by the Panhandle Health District as a person who has stayed home for the recommended period of time and have not had a fever for at least 72 hours. Details on any new cases are posted and updated in real time on www.panhandlehealthdistrict.org/covid-19/.
Unfortunately, there is a lot of misinformation out there on social media. So for the most accurate and up-to-date information on COVID-19 please continue to follow the Kootenai County Office of Emergency Management’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/kootenaioem/.
Throughout the COVID-19 crisis, many people have a hard time coping with the isolation, the loss of employment and the general loss of social interaction. Our first responders are called daily to assist people who are depressed and contemplating self-harm in response to their personal behavioral crisis. There is help available. The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare has a Crisis Line that is available 24 hours a day. The number there is 888-330-3010. There is also the Idaho Suicide Hotline that can be reached 24 hours a day at 208-298-4357. The National Suicide Hotline can be reached at 800-273-8255.
Closer to home, with available drop in service is the Northern Idaho Crisis Center located at 2195 Ironwood Court in Coeur d’Alene. They can also be reached by phone at 208-625-4884. All of these resources are available for people who need an ear to listen or a shoulder to lean on. They are also available for someone who is concerned that a friend or family member who may need help. These resources are in place because we all need a little help now and then.
Unified Commanders,
Sheriff Ben Wolfinger
Chief Chris Way
Kootenai County Emergency Operations Center