Full Notification

As of today, the Contra Costa County Health Department reported that 511 peopl have tested positive for the COVID-19 virus.  This number has more than doubled in the past 10 days.  The updated Health Department website (www.coronavirus.cchealth.org) also now reports the number of positive tests in each community.  Thus far, there are 5 people who have tested positive who live in Moraga.

It is very important to note that there are a number of people in Town who have or have had COVID-19 symptoms, but were not tested.  Additionally, I know of people who work in Moraga and have tested positive, but their positive test is reported where they live.  Remember that the virus can incubate inside a person for up to 14 days before the person is symptomatic.  They can be contagious for part of this time...and have no idea they are infected with the virus.  So, please do not become complacent because you think that only 5 people in the whole town have it.

We all need to continue to follow the Health Officer's order regarding shelter-in-place.  Many believe that the number of those who have tested positive is lower than projections because of the shelter-in-place orders that most people are following.  Through these efforts, we are working the flatten the statistical curve and ensure there are sufficient healthcare resources to treat people who are ill or injured in our community.

Remember these 5 keys to preventing the virus:
**Hands - wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap.
**Elbow - cough or sneeze into the crook of your elbow.
**Face - don't touch your face.
**Space - give each other space - stay 6 feet apart.
**Home - stay at home and abide by the shelter-in-place order.

Social distancing can be very tough on many of us, especially during this time of the year.  Many churches are offering live streaming and other broadcasts of services.  Families are using Zoom or other social media platforms to have virtual gatherings.  Remember, when we don't follow the shelter-in-place order and go to church, or have coffee with a friend, or host a small dinner party for friends -- you can create a chain between you and your friend's daughter's son's friend's mother and her boyfriend, who is infected, but doesn't know it yet.  We have to break the chain...and continue to flatten the curve.

Both the CDC and County Health Departments are recommending that people wear masks when they are out in public.  These do not have to be N95 masks - please save those for healthcare workers and first responders.  A simple cloth mask or barrier will work to block your nose and mouth, potentially protecting you.

Ask yourself - what can I do to make a difference in these challenging times?  Have you checked in with your neighbors?  Is there someone who you know who needs some assistance?  Are you following the shelter-in-place order?  Each of us can make a difference with our actions...and our actions can speak loudly - especially when combined with the actions of others in our community.

Don't forget about our essential businesses in Moraga that are open for business and eager to serve you.  Most of our restaurants are open and serving their excellent food for take out.  Other businesses are also open and offering essential goods and services.  Please consider patronizing these businesses that support our community and schools.  Please thank the employees and first responders who are working every day to serve our community.

Please keep yourself and your family safe and healthy during these challenging times.  For currrent information about the COVID-19 situation, please go to www.coronavirus.cchealth.org or call the Health Department information number at 844-729-8410.  Thank you to each and every one of you for your help in keeping Moraga a safe community.