LAFAYETTE — Amid troubling numbers, like deaths and hospitalizations, there are also signs of hope and recovery.
Among those who have recovered from COVID-19 is one of the first in Acadiana to be diagnosed.
Department of Transportation Secretary Dr. Shawn Wilson is now back to work after being symptom-free for about five days.
"I would advise folks, particularly who are at home and are treating themselves and maybe not necessarily in a critical care condition, to really take it easy and to be very mindful that it's a slow process," said Wilson.
Dr. Tina Stefanski with the Department of Health says cases may vary, but recovery usually begins a week after the onset of symptoms.
"As long as you have three days of no symptoms, so 72 hours, most people are considered free from transmission to others," explained Stefanski.
Wilson wants people to recognize that although he recovered from COVID-19, the severity of the virus is still grave.
"This is a very serious matter. It's affecting everyone differently," said Wilson. "My baseline health, perhaps, contributed greatly to my ability to recovery. I didn't have any underlying medical conditions that will exacerbate the problem."
Wilson is reminding the public that stopping the spread is a community effort.
"It's important for everyone to do their fair share in making sure that we are responsible citizens to help protect each other."
