BRAINTREE — Mayor Charles C. Kokoros and the Braintree Board of Health would like to remind all residents that social distancing guidelines have been extended through the month of April, per federal orders.
On Sunday, March 29, President Trump called for an extension to the nationwide social distancing guidelines. All residents must continue to avoid nonessential travel, going to work, eating at bars and restaurants and gathering in groups of more than 10 through the end of April.
“In accordance with federal orders, the Town of Braintree will be following the extension of social distancing guidelines,” said Mayor Kokoros. “We encourage all residents to limit their time in public spaces and keep a distance of six feet from others. We would also like to remind residents that social gatherings should be avoided. Residents should avoid meeting up with others in public spaces, even with a six-foot distance. To truly practice social distancing, residents should only be in close contact with those they live with.”
Health Officials Urge Residents to Stay at Home
Public health officials urgently encourage all residents to practice social distancing and remain at least six feet away from others while avoiding congregating in groups larger than 10. Regardless of your age, and no matter if you feel sick or not, it is important to follow social distancing guidelines and stay at home away from non-family contacts at this time.
Social distancing will help to minimize exposure among people, especially given that COVID-19 is highly contagious and people may be contagious prior to exhibiting symptoms. Parents should be sure to talk to their children about proper hygiene and prevention methods as well as the importance of social distancing.
Due to the evolving spread of COVID-19 in Massachusetts, Gov. Baker issued a stay-at-home advisory outlining self-isolation and social distancing protocols earlier this month. Massachusetts residents are advised to stay home during this time in order to curb the spread of this virus, with the exception of essential activities such as going grocery shopping or picking up medication.
Town officials would also like to remind residents of the critical importance of not congregating in groups outside. While residents are encouraged to get outside for fresh air, it is unsafe to have groups of people at the playgrounds or playing team and contact sports.
Town parks should only be used for walking, running and biking while practicing social distancing. Organized sports or pickup games and the use of playground equipment is prohibited. All sports and recreation equipment and toys should be cleaned regularly.
Residents are encouraged to online chat, Facetime and video chat their family and friends and put on social media how they’re #ComingTogetherByStayingApart.
Health Guidance
Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough and shortness of breath, and can appear between two and 14 days after exposure, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Anyone who experiences symptoms and believes they may have the virus is advised to contact their health care provider. For more information from the CDC for those who may have the virus, click here.
Please be mindful of the following steps you can take to help prevent the transmission of any respiratory infection, including COVID-19:
- Practice good hand hygiene. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds including under your fingernails. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol content) can be used when soap and water are not available.
- Keep your hands away from your face.
- Cover your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing with a tissue and discard it immediately. Cough into the sleeve over your elbow instead of your hand. Wash your hands often when coughing and sneezing.
- Frequently clean commonly touched surfaces, including electronics, door knobs and countertops.
- Avoid sharing food utensils, containers and other personal items.
- Practice “social distancing” by maintaining a distance of 6 feet from others.
- Stay away from people who are sick and stay home when you are sick.
COVID-19 Information Resources
Braintree officials encourage everyone to stay informed regarding COVID-19. The following websites are recommended for the most updated information:
- Town website: www.braintreema.gov
- Town COVID-19 updates: braintreema.gov/covid19
- Massachusetts Department of Public Health: www.mass.gov/covid-19
- Massachusetts 2-1-1 general COVID-19 information: Click here or dial 2-1-1 (24/7)
- Sign up for the Massachusetts COVID-19 Text Message Notification System to receive important updates: text “COVIDMA” to 888-777
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: www.cdc.gov
Additional updates will be provided as information becomes available.
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