One thing we learned from the event is that the state has been testing people who had symptoms consistant with coronavirus.
"We know that there's a handful of patients in Louisiana who met the criteria for testing, and who were tested for COVID 19. Those have all been negative," City Health Director, Dr. Jennifer Avegno told reporters after the exercise.
She went on to say that while that is good news, it clearly may not last.
"There are no confirmed cases in New Orleans or the rest of Louisiana, and the risk to the general public continues to be low. As we watch, though, what is happening in other parts of the country, we know that there is a real possability that could change. That's why exercises like we just finished today are so important."
Avegno also noted that they have learned that this coronavirus has not been as severe in younger patients.
"Children really are having very mild cases," the health director explained. "Those who are affected more severly are the elderly and those with chronic illness."
She explained that while "children may look fine and feel fine," they could still pass the coronavirus to others... including their grandparents.
"Children are vectors," Avegno said.
With four cruise lines currently sailing in and out of New Orelans, Homeland Security Chief Colin Arnold said that is one area of focus.
"We had crusie ship representatives in the table top."
He said if one of those vessels has people aboard with symmptoms, officials could "anchor a cruise ship potentially even near the mouth of the river or even off in the Gulf" until they could evaluate those aboard.
