A Lexington County patrol deputy is in home isolation after testing positive Friday for COVID-19, the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department announced Friday.

“As an agency, we are very concerned about the deputy’s health and well-being as he recovers from his illness,” Lexington County Sheriff Jay Koon said. “Although he has been isolated, he’s in good spirits as he continues to rest.”

The Sheriff’s Department has ensured all employees are aware of the necessary precautions and preventive measures, as well as the steps to take in the event of a possible exposure, according to Koon.

“We’ve thoroughly cleaned the facility the deputy works out of, which is our South Region office near Pelion, to reduce the risk of further exposure,” Koon said. “We’re also working with DHEC to monitor the health status of employees who have been in close contact with the deputy in recent days. We’re doing everything we can to protect our employees so they can continue to protect our community.

“Procedures have been in place to check the temperature of each employee at the start of every shift,” Koon said. “Staffing levels have been modified to reduce the spread of potential infection and allow time for the cleaning of work areas.”

As more COVID-19 cases are confirmed in Lexington County, the tips public health officials have shared since the beginning of the pandemic are still the best ways to slow the spread of the virus, according to Koon.

“These are uncertain times for all of us and we don’t know how long these unusual conditions will be a part of our daily lives,” Koon said. “We do know our best defense against COVID-19 is to frequently wash our hands with soap and water, stay at least six feet away from others and stay home if you feel sick.”