Health officials warn of possible exposure to COVID-19 in Pocatello bars


POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI / KIDK) – Clients of Pub New Harmony, 134 Warren Ave., and Hooligans, 122 N. 3rd Ave., in Pocatello, may have been exposed to COVID-19.

An employee of Pub New Harmony, who was also a Hooligans customer, has been confirmed to have COVID-19.

Southeastern Idaho Public Health recommends that people who have been to Pub New Harmony on June 26, 28, or 29 or Hooligans on June 26, monitor themselves for any of the following symptoms: fever, cough, shortness of breath, chills, muscle pain, sore throat, stuffy or runny nose, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, headache, or new loss of taste or smell.

Experts believe that symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure.

If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, contact your healthcare provider. The risk of exposure is considered small, but not zero. “Exposure in a bar is more than casual contact like you would in a supermarket or convenience store. Due to the nature of the contact, we believe it is important to notify the public, “said Maggie Mann, Director of the Southeast Idaho Public Health District (SIPH).

Pub New Harmony and Hooligans have cooperated fully with the investigation of the situation. Limiting face-to-face interaction is still absolutely critical if we want to stop the spread of this virus in our communities. The increase in COVID-19 cases underscores the importance of practicing COVID-19 risk reduction strategies that include:

• Stay home if you are sick.
• Practice physical distance (keep at least 6 feet between individuals).
• Wear a face mask or cloth cover in public places where physical distance measurements are difficult to maintain.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or sleeve.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with your unwashed hands.
• Cleaning and disinfection of frequently touched objects and surfaces.

If you think you have been exposed to a confirmed case of COVID-19, be sure to isolate yourself. If you need medical attention, call your healthcare provider before a visit to discuss your symptoms and next steps. Tests are available by calling 208-234-5875.

SIPH has a call center to answer community questions and is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm. You can contact the hotline at (208) 234-5875.