Local health officials are urging residents to continue to follow the state mask mandate, observe social distancing guidelines and wash hands frequently to slow the spread of COVID-19.
Health officials stress that even though the state graduated to stage 5 of the Governor’s Back on Track plan, the mask mandate remains in effect. Governor Holcomb is expected to evaluate the move to Stage 5 this week as the current stage observance expires on Saturday, October 17. Several health officials in the state have reportedly emailed the governor to urge him to keep the mask mandate in effect.
Marshall County Health Administrator Ashley Garcia also reminds residents that close contacts with those exposed to a COVID-19 positive resident must quarantine for 14 days. She stated in a press release that the close contact must quarantine “even if a face covering or mask was worn and regardless of whether the close contact is symptomatic or asymptomatic.”
The release further states that close contacts should wait five to six days after exposure before getting tested unless symptoms develop sooner.
Starke County Health Nurse Frank Lynch echoed that directive. He further commented that if there is any reason why a person should be tested they should isolate themselves. Starke County is up over 60 cases so far in October which is far more than a month ago.
Terri Hansen from the Pulaski County Health Department said officials there are concerned with community activities where many people gather. One activity they are concerned with is trick-or-treating. They ask that everyone follow COVID-19 guidelines in the communities where it is allowed. Additionally, they are putting together plans on how to disburse vaccines when they become available.
The state has a color-coded map that outlines how a school should operate under certain levels of community spread. A copy of that map is below. Starke and Marshall Counties are currently in the moderate community spread which makes things a little more strict when it comes to in-school and extra-curricular activities. Pulaski County is in the minimal community spread category.
For now, health officials urge community members to wear masks and socially distance, wash hands frequently during the day for at least 20 seconds at a time with soap, and use hand sanitizer when available.
