WATERTOWN, S.D. (KXLG) – Sanford Health Watertown Clinic has confirmed that a provider who works at the Watertown clinic has tested positive for COVID-19. While Sanford Health does not disclose identifying information for patients, William Devine, M.D., a family medicine physician, has chosen to self-identify. Devine’s exposure to COVID-19 is believed to be travel-related. He is resting at home.

In a release Sanford Health says, “We are in the process of identifying patients, staff and family members who may have been exposed. We are working closely with the South Dakota Department of Health and federal officials to evaluate this situation, and we continue to vigorously follow CDC infection control protocols. We are taking extra precautions to monitor the health of staff and patients who may have come into close contact with Devine. The health, safety and well-being of our patients, staff and the community we serve remains our top priority.”  Because Devine self-isolated as soon as he developed symptoms, Officials believe potential staff and patient exposures were limited. Patients seen by Devine on or after March 25 will be contacted by the South Dakota Department of Health. In addition, they are encouraging patients who had contact with Devine in recent days to monitor themselves closely. If you have symptoms of COVID-19, including shortness of breath, cough and fever, call Sanford Health Watertown Clinic at 605-886-1565 or schedule an e-visit using My Sanford Chart.