STILLWATER, Okla. (KFOR-TV) — After a spike in coronavirus cases, the City of Stillwater is considering going back to phase two of reopening, according to KFOR-TV in Oklahoma City.
Stillwater is currently in phase three, meaning businesses can be open with social distancing policies. A return to phase two would mean more restrictions.
There are 147 active COVID-19 cases in Stillwater, and that number is expected to increase this weekend, city officials said.
City Manager Norman McNickle said city leaders are monitoring and gathering data to determine if they are able to treat COVID-19 patients if the numbers continue to increase.
One key metric that we monitor is if the Stillwater Medical Center is able to care for a spike in coronavirus patients. We ask: Do they have enough beds, ventilators, and personal protection equipment [PPE]? We also have to understand what is happening in our community, and what we are seeing are people age 20 to 27 socializing in large groups, not wearing masks and not following other CDC guidelines. This is the reason for the recent spike in Stillwater’s cases.
City officials are encouraging residents to practice recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, including wearing a mask, frequently washing your hands, staying at home when your sick and practicing social distancing.
“We ask that everyone become an advocate for at-risk populations,” McNickle said. “Even if you don’t think you are vulnerable or that you are in contact with those at-risk—you are. Your actions, or lack of actions, have a direct impact on your fellow residents. Please be considerate. Wear your masks. Limit close contact with others.”
If you would like to learn more about COVID-19, click here.
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