Detailed Info from Mohave County
MOHAVE COUNTY, AZ (April 16, 2020) — The Mohave County Health Department now has over 50 positive cases that have been confirmed. It’s an important reminder that COVID-19 is in our midst and we must deal with that reality by adhering to certain restrictions that protect you and the others around you. Mohave County government wants to remind its residents of what can make things better during these difficult times.
Since COVID-19 began spreading, there’s been talk of the importance of Social Distancing, sometimes also referred to as “physical distancing.” The CDC says it simply means “keeping space between yourself and other people outside of your home.” More specifically, it requires you to stay at least 6 feet from others, to not gather in groups, and to stay out of crowded places and avoid mass gatherings. This is all vital to avoid being exposed to COVID-19 and slowing its spread in our county, state, and across the country.
People should limit close contact with individuals outside their households in indoor and outdoor spaces. After all, the virus can be spread before it’s even known someone is sick. Social distancing is especially important for those who have a higher risk of getting very sick. Pay close attention to where you stand in line at any store and leave plenty of room between those in front of and in back of you.
COVID-19 spreads mainly among those who are in close contact (within 6 feet) for a prolonged period. Spread happens when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, and those tiny droplets are launched from their mouth or nose into the air and land in the mouths or noses of others close by. Those tiny droplets are dangerous and can also be inhaled into the lungs. Recent studies indicate that people who are infected, but do not have symptoms, likely also play a role in the spread of COVID-19.
Social distancing is so important because it helps limit contact with infected people and contaminated surfaces.
Here are some important Social Distancing points:
· If you must shop for food or medicine at the grocery store or pharmacy, stay at least 6 feet away from others.
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· Face masks are very important when out and about. Wear a cloth mask that completely covers the nose and mouth while in any community setting.
· Consider ordering groceries online and picking up at the curb, if possible.
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· Get your medications on the phone or online if at all possible. And by mail order.
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· Avoid large and small gatherings in private places and public spaces, especially dinners or parties at a friend’s house, parks, restaurants, shops, or any other place. (This advice applies to people of any age, including teens and younger adults. Children should not have in-person playdates while school is out.).
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· Work from home when possible.
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· If at all possible, avoid using any kind of public transportation, ridesharing, Uber, Lyft, or taxis.
Staying at home doesn’t mean you’re no longer able to communicate with others outside of that environment. Besides calling each other on the phone, there are social media conversations you can participate in with family and friends over the Internet. Want to see and talk to each other? Skyping is one way, and there’s also the increasingly popular Zoom. They’re excellent for families and friends who are scattered about for home video meetings. (To learn how to use Zoom or Skype, Google on the Internet and if you don’t know how, check with a friend or relative to set it up. It’s easier than you think.) Also, if you know someone who is truly alone, there is no better time than now to keep that person in your loop of friends and give them a welcomed phone call.
Remember, we’re all in this together. We can also work this out together…even if we have to stay apart for the time being. Mohave County is here to do our part. Stay tuned with us.
