BISMARCK, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – News broke Wednesday evening that the state of North Dakota had reported its first case of COVID-19, known as the coronavirus.

Health Officials reported that the case was found in Ward County resident. The man, who is in his 60s, had traveled out of state where he had contact with a person who has since tested positive for the disease. He has not been hospitalized and is currently self-isolating and recovering at home. The public health investigation is ongoing.

In a state address, Governor Doug Burgum said individuals need to be making decisions on fact and not fear.

Governor Burgum stated that residents need to be mindful and if they’re feeling sick, stay home.

He added that residents may start seeing more cancelled events as organizations try their best from creating large crowds that could allow for more transmission.

North Dakota State health officer Mylynn Tufte reported that they have plans at the NDDoH and are prepared to make sure North Dakotans are as prepared as possible.

Tufte added that at this time, they need leaders to step up and become a voice for providing the right information regarding the coronavirus.

Individuals can help protect themselves from COVID-19 by practicing everyday preventative behaviors. Stay home when sick, cover coughs and sneezes, frequently wash hands with soap and water and clean frequently touched surfaces.

Symptoms of COVID-19 in people who have been exposed can include fever, cough and shortness of breath. The symptoms may appear in as few as two days or as long as 14 days after exposure. Reported illnesses have ranged from people with little to no symptoms to people being severely ill and dying. Individuals who think they may have COVID-19 should call their health care provider first before going to the clinic, unless it’s an emergency.

For questions related to COVID-19, the public can call the NDDoH health hotline at 866-207-2880 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. Individuals who need medical advice should contact their health care provider.

For the most updated and timely information and updates related to COVID-19, visit the NDDoH website at www.health.nd.gov/coronavirus , follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and visit the CDC website at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus.