APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Fox Valley health leaders have issued a Public Health Emergency COVID-19 Alert.
The alert is in response to the escalation of coronavirus cases and strain it has put on local hospitals.
In a joint statement, the city of Appleton, the city of Menasha, Calumet Outagamie, and Winnebago County Health Departments encourage residents to take action now to stop the spread.
Officials say you should physically distance at least 6 feet from people you do not live with, wear a face mask, wash hands frequently and cooperate with public health officials if you have tested positive or are a close contact.
Health leaders are also encouraging the following strategies found in the Wisconsin Department of Health Services COVID-19 Data and Mitigation Strategies to Aid Local Communities:
Community Gatherings: Do not hold indoor gatherings. Limit outdoor gatherings to 10 people or fewer; physically distance and wear face coverings.
Restaurants, Bars: Offer take-out, curbside pick-up or delivery only. Close indoor bars.
Salons, Spas, Gyms: Provide minimum operations only.
Offices, Workplaces: Keep only essential workforce on-site; symptom monitor; use precautions.
Grocery Stores, Pharmacies: Remain open, with no dine in, self-service or customer dispensing.
Retail: Use mail delivery and curbside pick-up options. Limit the number of patrons who enter.
Hotels, Lodging: Use strict sanitation protocols.
Concerts, Festivals, Sporting Events: Do not hold these events at this time.
