Full Notification

As of this afternoon, the Contra Costa County Department of Health Services reported that 34 people have contracted the COVID-19 virus in the County and there are no fatalities.  Although this is only a small increase, the number is expected to jump as more testing is done.  To find more information that has been vetted and is accurate,  please go to www.coronavirus.cchealth.org.
 
Following yesterday’s advisory announcement from the Governor, the Health Officers from six (6) Bay Area Counties, including Contra Costa, issued Orders directing ALL people to “shelter at their place of residence,” with some exceptions.  A copy of the order is attached to this bulletin for your information.  This order is not an advisory, but is a legally enforceable order. 
 
Essentially, this order is designed to have people minimize leaving their homes and decrease the number of people interacting and potentially sharing the virus.  The whole goal is to minimize the spread of the virus and keep the impact upon our healthcare system within a manageable level.  The order does allow people to go out for groceries, prescriptions, doctor’s appointments and engage in outdoor activities, in compliance with social distancing requirements.  The order also allows essential businesses to remain open.  These include, but aren’t limited to, healthcare, grocery stores, gas stations, banks, hardware stores and media outlets.  Please read the order for a complete list of these businesses and other exceptions.  The order is also posted on the cchealth website.
 
Now, more than ever, it is essential for us to come together as a community and ensure that our neighbors, especially those who are “at-risk,” are not forgotten.  When about 18% of our residents are 65 or older, there is a very good chance that you have a neighbor who may need some help.  Consider checking in with them?  Perhaps you can run an errand for them or pick up groceries for them when you are shopping?  How can you help?  Again, if by doing a simple thing, we can reduce the opportunity for the virus to spread, what an opportunity!
 
Here are some prevention reminders:
 
**Wash your hands often – use soap and scrub for at least 20 seconds;
**Avoid touching your face to prevent germs from being transmitted from your hands;
**Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing;
**Avoid close contact with others;
**Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces often;
**Respect the order and minimize contact with others;
**Stay home and do not go out if you are sick.
 
Remember that both the Moraga Police and Moraga-Orinda Fire are also taking precautions to avoid being exposed to COVID-19.  These precautions may include wearing gloves, masks and gowns, keeping a distance away and taking more reports by telephone.  Please do not be alarmed by this as they are trying to prevent exposure to the virus.  If you call 9-1-1 or Dispatch for help with a sick person, please tell the Dispatcher that the person is sick and describe the symptoms.  This will allow the first responders the opportunity to don personal protective equipment to protect themselves so they can remain available to assist others in need.
 
The Town will continue to provide information regarding COVID-19 as it is received.  Please continue to support each other in our community during these challenging times.  Please remember to thank those who are working hard to serve us – grocery clerks, healthcare professionals, small business owners, etc.; and those who are working hard to protect us – our police, fire and EMS professionals.  Thank you for helping us to keep our community safe.