Dubuque Mayor urges residents to stay home.

Dubuque Mayor Roy D. Buol is strongly recommending all residents to voluntarily stay home for at least 14 days in an effort to slow the spread of the coronavirus(COVID-19).“It is critical that we all heed the direction from the Governor and our public health officials and avoid all unnecessary contact with others. The best way to do that is to stay home,” said Buol.  “Unless you have to go out for essentials, like food, medicine, and health care, or if you must work in an essential service, I urge you to do your part – stay home, stay safe.”Buol said that those who must leave their homes and those who do for exercise or fresh air should practice social distancing and maintain at least six feet of space at all times and should use appropriate caution in their interactions with others.  Necessary outings should be limited to one or two persons per household. Of course, frequent hand washing and strictly followed disinfecting routines in homes and businesses are also important.

“Each day, we are seeing more and more positive cases of COVID-19 in our state and our county,” added Buol.  “At this point, the only way we can prevent continued spread of the virus and strains on our healthcare system is for everyone to take personal responsibility by staying home as much as they can.”

Buol said his request of residents is consistent with similar “Stay Home, Stay Safe” recommendations being issued by his colleague mayors around the country in the U.S. Conference of Mayors.

Buol’s recommendation follows his state of emergency declaration on March 16 and subsequent decisions to close most City of Dubuque facilities to the public.  City of Dubuque staff are working to ensure all essential municipal services are maintained as much as possible.  City staff whose responsibilities allow are working from home. Many services continue to be available via phone, email, and the City’s website.

For the latest local information on COVID-19, visit www.cityofdubuque.org/COVID19.

 

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