City of Blackwell urges safety as state surges to COVID-19 level orange

The City of Blackwell has just released the following statement regarding COVID-19 safety:

In light of the recent spike in COVID-19 cases throughout Oklahoma, the City of Blackwell is concerned with the rising number of cases being confirmed for our own residents.

The State of Oklahoma is now in the Moderate Risk Category (Orange level). We believe it is appropriate to advise our citizens of the facts and strongly recommend limiting social gatherings, as those events seem to be linked to these outbreaks.

We urge our citizens not to make the mistake of falling into a false sense of security. Too many have abandoned social distancing protocols, mask etiquette, and hygienic precautions, leading us into another spike which is currently sweeping across our county and state.

Gatherings like school functions, including sporting events and after school meetings, have been directly linked to the rise of cases we have seen in Blackwell. Of immediate concern, is the Blackwell Maroons playoff game this Friday that is expected to draw a huge number of local residents and visitors. If attending this event, minimize gestures that promote close contact, such as handshakes or hugs, and instead wave or give a verbal greeting.

Keep a safe distance between you and the next person. We are not back to normal. Not yet.

Be vigilant. Practice social distancing even when attending an outdoor event. Wear a mask when entering businesses and stores. Wash your hands. Those living with persons at high risk should consider the potential risk to their loved ones from attending public events.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of indicators reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness needing hospitalization. Signs may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. Symptoms include fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, and diarrhea.

You may contract COVID-19 if you were within 6 feet of someone who has COVID-19 for a total of 15 minutes or more, provided care at home to someone who is sick with COVID-19, had direct physical contact with the person (hugged or kissed them), shared eating or drinking utensils or if someone with the virus sneezed, coughed, or somehow got respiratory droplets on you.

Stay home if you have been exposed to COVID-19 in the last 14 days or are showing COVID-19 symptoms. Anyone who has had close contact with a person who has COVID-19 should also stay home and monitor their health, and if symptoms worsen, contact your medical provider.