Safety is Jamestown Regional Medical Center’s highest priority. In light of this rapidly evolving situation, JRMC is following the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regarding appropriate measures to ensure prompt identification of potentially infected patients to prevent the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

As a precaution, however, JRMC has:

  • restricted visitors including students, volunteers and vendors
    • Exceptions include:
      • parents of patients under age 18
      • immediate family during end-of-life care
      • birth partners limited to one designated individual
      • care partners limited to one designated individual; no overnight visitation allowed

“We’re taking these steps as a reasonable precaution,” said Mike Delfs, JRMC President & CEO. “This is not a crisis, however, we want be prepared in case one occurs. For the safety of our patients and our community, we are asking visitors to stay home and stay healthy.”

These changes are effective March 13.

Though new coronavirus infections continue to accumulate across the country, zero patients have tested positive for the virus at JRMC. As of March 12, one has tested positive in North Dakota.

Cases of COVID-19 range from mild to severe. Some individuals will notice no symptoms, as most cases are mild. Other cases have resulted in death. The elderly or people of all ages with underlying health conditions are at a higher risk. Underlying health conditions may include heart disease, lung disease, diabetes and other chronic diseases.

Most people who develop symptoms will not need hospitalization. About 80% of patients who have COVID-19 can be treated at home. The rate of patients who experience serious complications is only slightly higher than that of seasonal flu.

Typical symptoms of COVID-19 are:

  • fever
  • cough
  • difficulty breathing

Anyone who is experiencing difficulty breathing or an extremely high temperature should seek immediate medical help.

If you feel you might have COVID-19, please call your primary care provider by phone. To protect patients and staff, please limit in-person visits. Please call ahead of you choose to visit the Emergency Department. The number is (701) 952-4578.

To protect yourself and family:

  • wash hands with soap and water
  • cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, then throw the tissue away
  • avoid touching eyes nose and mouth
  • avoid contact with the sick
  • if you are sick, avoid contact with others

For more information, call (701) 952-1050.