State Health Officials Give Update On Coronavirus (COVID-19), NBA Players Situation

Oklahoma officials confirm a third individual has tested positive for COVID-19.

Gov. Kevin Stitt and Oklahoma Health Department officials addressed concerns Thursday, after two Utah Jazz players staying in Oklahoma City received preliminary positive test results for the virus.

Stater Commissioner of Health Gary Cox said he is working with the NBA and Utah state officials to figure out the next steps.

“The Jazz players will be followed by the Utah State Health Department upon their return,” Cox said.

Addressing skepticism, health officials claimed the Jazz players were tested quickly in an effort to get ahead of the travel issue and avoid keeping the team quarantined in Oklahoma.

Health department officials said they're narrowing down who the presumptive positive players came in contact with locally.

“Other individuals in the stands. other individuals that might have been working at the game, those individuals are at very low risk,” State Epidemiologist Laurence Burnsed said.

Outside of the NBA players, state officials confirm there are three Oklahoma residents who have tested as confirmed positive cases.

The two individuals diagnosed as positive in Tulsa county are isolated at home, according to the state.

“Third individual that we're referencing is a new report and the investigation is ongoing at this time,” Burnsed said.

Gov. Stitt reminded Oklahomans not to panic, but instead to visit a doctor with any concerns.

“All Oklahomans can do their part as well by using common sense and practicing healthy habits. Avoid close contact with people who are sick and stay home if you are ill. Frequently wash your hands with soap and water, and avoid touching your face,” Stitt said.