Recommends staying home when possible; wearing masks in public
Contributed Article
SAFFORD – On Wednesday, June 17, Governor Doug Ducey issued a new Executive Order 2020-40. The intent of this new executive order is to ensure that the state of Arizona continues to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 to the greatest extent possible. Within the executive order, it offers a county, city, or town authority based on conditions in its jurisdiction to adopt policies regarding the wearing of face coverings in public for the purpose of mitigating the spread of COVID-19.
Since Arizona lifted its stay-at-home order on May 15, COVID-19 cases have increased considerably reaching record highs. Because of this, the Graham County Health Department strongly recommends wearing a face covering when in public and unable to social distance both outside and indoors. We are asking our residents to take extra precautions and stay at home as much as possible.
The Health Department would like to reemphasize the importance of the tools below which are proven to reduce the spread of the virus:
- Wear a face covering in public when unable to social distance by 6ft.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular EPA registered household cleaning spray or wipes.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Stay home when you’re sick.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- When shopping, limit the number of people who you take with you. If possible, pick one person from your household to do the shopping.
We are closely monitoring our cases across the County. Decisions will be made based on epidemiological data received from increased testing. Recommendations are subject to change if cases significantly increase.
As of Friday, Graham County had 59 total positive COVID-19 cases and Greenlee County had 14.
