Tuesday, April 7, 2020
Federal and State Updates Regarding the COVID-19 Virus
Governor Issues Statewide Stay-At-Home Order
The governor has issued a statewide Stay-at-Home Order to slow the spread of the coronavirus. This order went into effect on Monday, April 6 and will end on Friday, April 24. Individuals should avoid leaving their homes unless it’s necessary. Essential businesses will remain open throughout the duration of the stay-at-home order, but social distancing recommendations are still in effect. All public and charter schools will remain closed for the duration of the order. The order also places restrictions on the number of individuals allowed in stores that provide essential services or items. You can view the governor’s full Stay at Home Order for more information.
St. Louis City and County Stay-At-Home Order Still In Effect
The St. Louis City and County Stay-at-Home Order is still in effect until April 22 and will be re-evaluated at that time. Residents will be required to stay in their homes, except for certain essential activities including grocery shopping; pharmacy and doctor visits; engaging in outdoor activities, such as walking, hiking or running; and caring for a family member in another household. The full list of essential activities and prohibited activities can be found in the St. Louis County Department of Public Health’s official Stay at Home Order.
CDC Recommends People Wear Face Masks in Public
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now recommends Americans wear face masks when visiting places like grocery stores and anywhere it may be difficult to practice social distancing. Cloth face masks should fit snugly, but comfortably around the side of the face; be secured with ties or ear loops; include multiple layers of fabric; allow for unrestricted breathing; and be able to be machine washed and dried without damage to the shape of the mask. Surgical and N95 masks should be reserved for health care workers and other first responders. For instructions on how to make your own mask, please visit the CDC’s website.
Missouri Schools To Remain Closed
Due to the governor’s Stay-At-Home Order, schools will be closed until at least April 24. Schools are encouraged to continue preparing and serving food to children in need. If possible, schools can also continue to provide childcare. Missouri has also canceled statewide required testing assessments for this school year.
Knowing The Symptoms of COVID-19
Now that we are moving toward spring-like weather, it may be hard to distinguish COVID-19 symptoms from normal seasonal allergies. It is important to remember that symptoms of the coronavirus include fever, cough and/or shortness of breath. Symptoms appear 2-14 days after exposure. A few common symptoms of seasonal allergies include sneezing; an itchy, runny or stuffy nose; itchy red, watering eyes; and cough.
COVID-19 Testing Locations
North County
Christian Hospital Northeast
314-653-5000
Mid County
Barnes-Jewish Hospital
314-747-3000
West County
Mercy Hospital
mercy.net/covid19
South County
St. Luke’s Des Peres Hospital
314-966-9666
Staying Updated On COVID-19
St. Louis County officials have created a website for questions concerning COVID-19 in our community. This website includes information about what to do if you think you are sick. Residents who are experiencing symptoms of fever, cough and difficulty breathing should contact the St. Louis County Health Line at 314-615-2660, and those who believe they have been in contact with a person infected with COVID-19 should also call this number.
For more updates concerning COVID-19, please visit the official websites for the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). DHSS has also set up a 24-hour hotline concerning COVID-19 that you can reach by calling 877-435-8411.
As always, it is an honor and privilege serving you in the Missouri General Assembly. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions, concerns or ideas to improve our state government. Thank you for reading my Capitol Report and I look forward to sharing more of our work with you soon.