Dr. Lawton Davis, Health Director of the Coastal Health District, gave the following statement during a press conference held by Savannah Mayor Van Johnson on March 11, 2020.
“We know this is not a decision our city leaders have taken lightly. Communities everywhere are making difficult decisions right now, faced with many unknowns. It is because of these unknowns and the changing landscape of this pandemic that we are fully supportive of the decision made.
“The current situation in Chatham County and our surrounding area has not changed yet – we still do not have a confirmed local case of COVID-19 in a resident of Chatham County or a contiguous county. However, we do know that the virus is appearing in other parts of our country and state including south Georgia, and could soon be detected here. It’s really not a matter of “if” – it’s a matter of “when.”
“Here is what we are recommending right now to the people of Savannah. Be kind and generous with one another. Now is not a time to be fearful of your neighbor.
“If you are at high risk of severe complications from respiratory illness, you should avoid public places with crowds. If you are elderly and have risks, you probably should avoid your place of worship as well. But if you’re not in a high-risk group and you’re basically healthy, we encourage you to continue supporting local businesses. Eat in restaurants – after you wash your hands, of course. Go shopping. If you’re healthy, go to school, go to work, and go to your house of worship if you’re not in one of the high-risk groups.
“Right now, we are not asking that your life come to a standstill. We’re just asking that you take some extra precautions about personal hygiene, stay home if you’re sick, and stay alert in case health recommendations change.
“We all want the same thing – a healthy community, with a return to normal life as soon as possible.”
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