Situational update regarding COVID-19
1) At this time, the individual that was the first confirmed positive case in Bates County continues to remain in his home in Butler and is strictly adhering to the CDC guidance regarding quarantine/isolation which decreased exposure to others. He was tested approximately 9 days ago and his symptoms continue to diminish. As he remains in his home, he does not pose a threat of spreading this disease to the community.
2) As we hope most of you are aware, a statewide social distancing order will go into effect at 12:01 A.M. Monday, March 23, 2020. This order states that every person in the State of Missouri shall:
*avoid social gatherings of more than ten (10) people.
*avoid eating or drinking at restaurants, bars or food courts; however, the use of drive-thru, pickup or delivery options is allowed.
*not visit nursing homes, long-term care facilities, retirement homes or assisted living homes unless to provide critical assistance.
*schools shall remain closed.
This order does not prohibit people from visiting a variety of places, including grocery stores, gas stations, parks and banks as long as long as necessary precautions are taken and maintained to reduce the transmission of COVID-19.
Local public health authorities are hereby directed to carry out and enforce the provisions of this Order by means of civil proceedings.
3) Employers, please note that the CDC guidance states “do not require a healthcare provider’s note for employees who are sick with acute respiratory illness to validate their illness or return to work, as healthcare provider offices and medical facilities may be extremely busy and not able to provide such documentation in a timely way.” Resources for testing remain EXTREMELY limited in our area therefore it is NOT possible to test every employee that has been off for an illness of any kind before they can return to work.
4) Continue to take everyday prevention actions such as:
*wash your hands often with soap and water
*use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water is not available
*cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash
*to the extent possible, avoid touching high-touch surfaces in public places
*avoid touching your face, nose, eyes, etc.
*clean and disinfect frequently
*avoid all non-essential travel
*observe social distancing
*stay home if you are sick
*contact your primary care provider if you are sick and symptoms worsen
5) Most of all—BE KIND!
