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Fox Valley health leaders declare Public Health Emergency COVID-19 Alert

Posted at 12:46 PM, Oct 02, 2020
and last updated 2020-10-02 13:46:49-04

NORTHEAST WISCONSIN (NBC 26) -- The City of Appleton, City of Menasha, Calumet, Outagamie, and Winnebago County Health Departments have all issued a joint statement issuing a Public Health Emergency COVID-19 Alert.

"Due to escalation in cases, public health is not able to notify positive cases and their close contacts in a timely manner," the statement reads. "This severely limits efforts to contain the virus. Hospitals are enacting emergency plans. Public health implores everyone to take actions to stop uncontrolled community spread."

The public is encouraged to continue to keep six feet apart from others in public and to wear a mask. While indoors, health officials ask that you do not gather with people outside of your household. While outdoors, you are asked to limit gatherings to 10 people or fewer.

Health officials are encouraging the following strategies to businesses and other facilities:

Businesses and community organizations use WEDC Guidelines.
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.

For more information on cases in your area and COVID-19 recommendations, visit your local health department’s website.