Josh Peterson

As of Sunday, there were 39 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Tennessee, the most in Davidson County with 17, and 14 in Williamson County. There was also one case in neighboring Rutherford County. If you suspect you are experiencing symptoms of coronavirus, TDH encourages you to call your healthcare provider or hospital before traveling to help them take the proper steps to care for you. Unity Medical Center in Manchester does have the capability to test for the virus. Unity Medical Center can be reached at (931) 728-6354.

US Centers for Disease Control published interim guidance Sunday with recommendations that “for the next 8 weeks, organizers cancel or postpone in-person events that consist of 50 people or more throughout the United States.”

Two Manchester families have been displaced after a fire on Sunday left their home a total loss.

Manchester Fire Department responded to a structure fire at 808 Madison St. at noon Sunday to find a fully involved fire at the mobile home residence. All residents were out of the home and no injuries were reported.

Manchester Fire Department crews were able to quickly knock down the fire, but the home was a total loss, according to Manchester Fire Department Chief George Chambers. Two families were displaced and the American Red Cross was called to help secure lodging for the families. Also assisting with this emergency were Manchester Police Department, Coffee County Communications Center, Coffee County EMS and Duck River Electric.

The fire is currently under investigation by Manchester Fire and Rescue Department.

The Coffee County and Manchester City School Systems will be closing for an extended period of time due to concerns with the coronavirus.

Both school systems will be closing between March 16 and March 20. Coffee County Director of Schools Dr. Charles Lawson released a statement Sunday.

“The concern over the coronavirus is unprecedented. As a result, Coffee County Schools will be taking unprecedented action.”

A decision regarding following weeks will be released on Friday, March 19 by noon from city schools and 3 p.m. from Coffee County Schools.

“Closing schools will have an impact on working parents, will affect the labor force of local industries and may prevent some students form receiving a nutritious meal. We do not take the decision to close school lightly because of the effects it has on everyone,” explained Dr. Joey Vaughn, Director of Manchester City Schools. “However, given the information provided regarding coronavirus or COVID-19, we believe it is in the best interest of our schools and community to close school for an extended period of time.”

According to Vaughn, all city school sponsored activities are also suspended.

In reference to county schools, Dr. Lawson said County Schools would follow guidance from the TSSAA in regards to athletic events and that administration and coaches would contact players as information is available.