Logan County Department of Public Health urges social distancing

[April 17, 2020]  To be With the rapid spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19), social distancing is a critical practice that is essential to help prevent the virus from spreading. This means distancing yourself from other people in the community.

It is safe to assume COVID-19 may be active within the community as other central Illinois counties have individuals who have tested positive. What is dangerous about viruses such as COVID-19 is that the stranger sitting next to you may carry the virus but shows no signs of illness. This person may have contracted the virus through a person he knows who recently traveled and you would not know it. This is why it is safe to assume anyone can carry the virus which makes social distancing that much more critical.

The best way to practice social distancing is to avoid public places and to maintain a distance of at least six feet between you and others. If you are a social person, avoiding people is never easy, but having to suffer through an illness is even worse! Employers can even do their part by allowing employees to work at home if possible. Avoiding public transportation, if possible, is another way to distance yourself from others who may potentially transmit COVID-19. If meetings are not necessary, cancel the meeting.

In an effort to practice social distancing, LCDPH has closed its walk-in services at this time. Programs such as the WIC “curb side” pick up will continue to operate. Clients can dial 217-735-2317(ext. 282) from the parking lot and WIC staff will be out to serve you. LCDPH regrets any inconveniences at this time but can assure you it is a sensible way to protect the community.

At this time, LCDPH is working closely with the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), medical providers, emergency management, police and other local responders to assure the community can be protected as best as possible. Through COVID-19 surveillance, LCDPH is actively monitoring the movement of COVID-19 and environmental health services continue operation.

Lastly, LCDPH reminds you if you are sick or have symptoms such as cough, fever and shortness of breath, call your medical provider. In addition, practice frequent handwashing and cleaning of commonly-touched surfaces. Lastly, practice social distancing.

If you would like information regarding COVID-19, you can check out the Centers for Disease Control website at WWW.CDC.Gov or IDPH at WWW.DPH.ILLIOIS.GOV. In addition, you can contact LCDPH at 217-735-2317 or log onto their website at WWW.LCDPH.ORG.

[Don Cavi, MS, LEHP
Public Health Administrator
Logan County Department of Public Health]