I am writing this when Tucson, Pima County, Arizona, this nation and the world, faces a time of crisis with the COVID-19 pandemic.
The COVID-19 (Coronavirus) has made people sick, taken lives and disrupted many facets of our society, as we know it. In this nation, our federal government is taking steps to try to deal with the Coronavirus, with testing, medical equipment, research on potential vaccines and medications.
Individually, we need to take steps as well: Simple things like Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Put distance between yourself and other people if COVID-19 is spreading in your community. This is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick. It has been suggested that the distance should be six feet.
Stay Home
Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care. Learn what to do if you are sick. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow. Throw used tissues in the trash. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily.
This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks. If surfaces are dirty, clean them: Use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.
On the national, state, county and municipal levels, including the City of Tucson, state of emergencies have been declared, with conditions set out, in an effort to try to deal with the Coronavirus.
The City’s declaration has prohibited gatherings of more than 50 people, dining in at a restaurant and temporarily closed businesses where people gather, such as movie theaters, bars, night clubs, gyms and bowling alleys in an effort to have social distancing to lower the rate of infection from the Coronavirus.
Schools, ranging from the University of Arizona to Elementary schools have made changes on how they Will teach their students. Some schools will only have online courses, while others are still determining whether the respective school year will be continuing, The City of Tucson is also in the process of finalizing a plan for how city government will function during these times.
Many businesses in our community have stepped up to help people, by waiving late fees, shut off notices, foreclosures and evictions during this time of crisis and for which I thank them. Until when we win this battle against the Coronavirus, our lives will be different.
During this time, the Ward 5 Council Office, as well as other City Council offices, will be closed to public Access and walk in service. The Ward 5 Council Office can be reached by phone at (520) 791-4231 or Email: ward5@tucsonaz.gov.
Thank you. Be safe and stay healthy.
