2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

The City of Puyallup understands that many people are concerned about the COVID-19 virus. State and regional health professionals are closely monitoring the situation and advising local jurisdictions on preparedness efforts and recommending extensive community mitigation measures at this time.

What are coronaviruses?

"Human coronaviruses form a large family of viral illnesses that includes the common cold. If you've ever been sick with a runny nose, cough or soar throat, you likely had a form of coronavirus. Coronaviruses vary greatly in severity and in how they transmit". (source: Tacoma-Piece County Health Department)

What We Know

The City is planning response measures in the event that more cases develop. While we do not have reason to panic, we are keeping tabs on what is happening and contemplating actions in the event of worsening conditions.

The City will continue to receive regular COVID-19 updates from the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department and the Washington State Department of Health.

What We Can Do

In the interest of helping control the spread of COVID-19, we ask that everyone follow recommended precautions from the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department:

Increase hand washing, using hot water and liberal soap for 20 seconds
Cover coughs and sneezes, ideally with elbows
Maintain physical distances from others (six feet, if possible)
Frequently clean and disinfect surfaces
Stay home if experiencing respiratory symptoms

Additionally, it is advised that members of our community consider how they will manage in the event of illness:

Who could care for any children or pets?
What about other household members and neighbors?
What is your family plan if someone needs to stay home if they are sick?
Visit the CDC to learn how to get your household ready for COVID-19
Visit the CDC to learn how to get schools, workplaces, and community locations ready for COVID-19

Please take precautionary measures to protect your health and that of your family and loved ones.

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Beginning June 26, 2020, facial coverings will be mandatory in Washington State to help prevent the spread of Covid-19. Remember: masks can’t do it alone - stay home if you are sick and always wash your hands!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is wearing a face covering safe? It feels hard to breathe when I wear one. While some people have health conditions that make face coverings unsafe, they are safe for nearly all of us, even if they feel uncomfortable at first and take a while to get used to. Public health experts agree face coverings are an important tool in preventing COVID and research is increasingly suggesting widespread use is effective. Make sure your face covering covers your mouth and nose but isn’t overly tight or restrictive. Choose a soft fabric such as cotton knit or use a bandana or scarf if that feels more comfortable.

What should I do if I see someone not wearing a mask? Nothing. Some people have conditions or circumstances that would make wearing a cloth face covering difficult or dangerous. Just wear your mask and stay six feet away.

When do I not have to wear a mask? You do not need to wear a cloth face covering when you are in your own home or in your car, if you are only with people in your own household. You also do not need to wear a cloth face covering when you are exercising outdoors and you have plenty of space. It’s a good idea to keep one in your pocket, though, in case you come across other people you can’t stay six feet away from. And some people may have health conditions or circumstances that make wearing a cloth face covering difficult or dangerous.

I don’t want to make or buy a face covering. Are there other options? Cloth face coverings do not need to be complicated or expensive. Save medical masks and respirators for health care workers and others in high-risk settings. Easy alternative are to use a scarf or any breathable, washable fabric, and wrap it around your face so that a couple layers of fabric are completely covering your mouth and nose.