March 17, 2020 4:15 a.m. 
There are 51 presumptive positive cases of COVID-19 in Oregon, as of Monday night.
Officials with the Oregon Health Authority announced that 4 of the cases are residents of the Oregon Veterans’ Home in Lebanon. The facility now has a total of 13 residents with presumptive positive cases of COVID-19. 12 of the residents are veterans and 1 is the spouse of a veteran.
One staff member has also tested positive. The employee was also sent home when symptoms appeared and has remained in isolation ever since, in accordance with established prevention protocols and public health guidelines.
8 other cases were announced Monday night. OHA said there are 2 new cases each in Benton and Deschutes counties, and 1 new case each in Clackamas, Marion, Multnomah and Washington counties.
State Health Officer and Epidemiologist Dr. Dean Sidelinger said the news is “a good reminder to take steps to protect yourself, and vulnerable friends and family members, by washing your hands, covering your coughs and sneezes, and staying home and away from others if you’re sick”.
The OHA release said Oregonians should continue to take steps to protect themselves, their families, and those who are most vulnerable to complications from COVID-19. Those considered “high risk” include adults age 60 and older, or anyone with a serious health condition, including lung or heart problems, kidney disease, diabetes, or anyone who has a suppressed immune system.
People vulnerable to complications should follow Federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations to stay home as much as possible and avoid gatherings.