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Public Health encourages social distancing

ESCANABA — During the current COVID-19 situation, Public Health, Delta & Menominee Counties reminds individuals to do their part to help slow the spread of illness in the community. Remember to Stay Home and Stay Safe.

When you do have to run essential errands, such as getting groceries or picking up prescriptions or take-out food, remember to practice social distancing. Social distancing is deliberately increasing the physical space between people to avoid spreading illness. The reason we practice social distancing is to “flatten the curve.” A large number of people becoming very sick over the course of a few days could easily overwhelm a hospital or healthcare facility. Too many people becoming severely ill with COVID-19 at roughly the same time will result in a shortage of hospital beds, equipment, and medical personnel. If we are able to spread out the number of very sick people over a longer time frame, there is a better chance of the hospital being able to keep up with adequate supplies, beds, and staff to care for the sick.

Some local businesses have taken steps to remind patrons to practice social distancing by placing markers 6 feet apart on floors in aisles and checkout lanes, putting up clear dividers between lanes, and ensuring that ill employees stay home from work.

“We commend the efforts local establishments have taken to help keep people healthy. Social distancing is the best tool we have for reducing the impact COVID-19 has on the community,” said Michael Snyder, health officer.

Remember to wash your hands after touching frequently used items or surfaces, do not touch your face with unwashed hands, and if you or your family members are ill — stay home. Ask someone from outside the home to run your errand for you and leave the items outside your house. Avoid gatherings of 10 or more people, and work or study from home whenever possible. Always follow public health recommendations and obey all executive orders. By doing your part to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in the community, you can help reduce the burden on the healthcare system and help save lives

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