Wayne County Health Department has been fielding questions and concerns from both the public and businesses as to what the executive order from Wayne County Commissioners, directives from Wayne County Health Officer Dr. David Jetmore, and the Stay Home Order from Gov. Eric Holcomb mean to their lives.
CAN I GO TO THE GROCERY STORE OR GAS STATION?
Yes, you can still go to the grocery store and gas stations. The ability to obtain food is an essential service to all
of our communities. You are advised to adhere to the social distance requirements as you navigate through the
stores as much as possible.
CAN I GO OUTSIDE? CAN I WALK MY DOG? CAN I RIDE MY BIKE?
The answer to each of them is, YES!! Going outside as spring is in the air is great for each of us. So go outside,
take a walk, take the dog for a walk, go on a bike ride. Just do not do this in groups. Remember, the key to
slowing the spread of COVID-19 is social distancing or physical distancing from each other. The social or
physical distances we seek are 6 feet or two arms lengths apart.
WHAT IS GOING ON WITH FUNERALS?
During this time, there are no viewing or calling hours for funerals. The decision to cease all viewing or calling
hours for funerals was the toughest decision that faced the Health Officer. The nature of calling hours is to offer
console to the family, it would not possible to have calling hours and have social distancing. Often it is the
population that is at most risk for COVID-19 that is attending funerals.
CAN CHILDREN CONTRACT COVID-19?
Yes, children can become infected with COVID-19. All ages have been treated for COVID-19 around the
world. While it is true persons over the age of 65 are most at risk of dying from this virus, younger people are
having symptoms that require hospitalization. In Los Angeles there was a death of a teenager from
complications of COVID-19. It is important that we all practice good hand hygiene, cover our coughs and stay
home if we are sick.
If you have any questions or concern and would like to speak to someone at Wayne County Health
Department, call (765) 973-9245 or email cstinson@co.wayne.in.us.