At this time, the role of the public is very important to ensure we keep everyone safe, businesses stay open, and we can move into Phase 2 in a few weeks. Please be patient and vigilant during this time! It is crucial for the public to follow the current directives in Phase 1:

• Isolate at home if you have even mild symptoms.
• People who have underlying health conditions or are over 60 should still be staying home except for essential needs.
• Practice good hygiene – research shows washing your hands 10 times per day significantly reduces transmission of respiratory illness.
• Maintain 6′ distance between you and anyone you don’t live with.
• Wear cloth face coverings when you leave home. Recent research suggests that if at least 60% of the population wore masks that were just 60% effective in blocking viral transmission—which a well-fitting, two-layer cotton mask is—the epidemic could be stopped.
• Avoid trips beyond 50 miles of your home. This is not the time for overnight or day trips outside your area. That means people should not be travelling before we know if we can enter Phase 2 June 5th at the earliest.

Information adapted from the OHA and an excellent article, Amid the Coronavirus Crisis, A Regimen for Reentry, by acclaimed surgeon, writer, and public health expert, Atul Gawande.