Update on County Preparations for Coronavirus Disease

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From Helen Robbins-Meyer, Chief Administrative Officer

County Team,

I want to provide another update on the County’s preparations in response to the coronavirus disease, also known as COVID-19.

First, I want to thank all of our employees who have been working tirelessly on this issue – coordinating with the CDC and our partners as evacuees from China spent two weeks in quarantine at MCAS Miramar, conducting tests for the disease in our Public Health lab, coordinating with agencies across the County to make sure our region is prepared – your hard work and dedication is incredibly appreciated.

While currently the risk of infection is low, we are ready to respond to keep our community safe and healthy, and that includes you. We want to make sure our employees are protected, and our organization is prepared as the situation develops.

Each department has a Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP), which includes a pandemic plan. It ensures we can continue to deliver core services should our workforce be impacted by the virus. Make sure you’re familiar with your department’s COOP, and if you have questions, discuss it with your management team.

Our health and emergency preparedness experts have additional recommendations:

Take steps to avoid getting sick.

  • One of the most effective ways is also one of the easiest. Wash your hands often and thoroughly. Watch this video to make sure you’re doing it correctly.

  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

  • If you are sick, stay home and keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.

  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, then wash your hands.

  • Practice other good health habits. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food.

There’s no cause for panic, but it’s always a good idea to be prepared.

  • Store a two-week supply of water and food.

  • Check your regular prescription drugs to ensure an adequate supply in your home.

  • Have any nonprescription drugs and other health supplies on hand.

  • Get copies and maintain electronic versions of health records from doctors, hospitals, pharmacies and other sources and store them for personal reference.

  • Have the same supplies on hand for your pets – food, water, medications, records and other things they may need, like a leash or bed.

  • Consider child care needs. Have a plan to care for children if schools or day care facilities are closed.

  • Talk with family members and loved ones about how they would be cared for if they got sick, or what will be needed to care for them in your home.

We will continue to keep you informed and update our plans as the situation develops. You can also get the latest information on our website at coronavirus-sd.com and by following the County on social media – Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Thank you for doing your part to protect each other and our community.