Emergency Management has provided answers to some of the most commonly asked COVID-19 questions:
From Emergency Management’s FaceBook page:
We wanted to take a moment to address some of the most frequently asked questions we receive via social media. If you have additional questions please call the EOC’s information line at 904-548-0900 or message EOC staff through the NassauEM Facebook page.
COVID-19 Social Media FAQ
1.What is the process for contact tracing once an individual tests positive? Are stores notified?
- When an individual tests positive, the Florida Department of Health begins a thorough process of case investigation and contact tracing. The patient will provide names of individuals and business they have come in contact with over the last 14 days. The D.O.H then contacts those entities to alert them to the possible exposure to COVID-19. Business follow their own protocol regarding notification and decontamination. For additional information please contact Florida Department of Health-Nassau at 866-779-6121
2.Are checkpoints still in place to monitor out of state travelers entering Florida?
- There are still checkpoints in place when entering the state of Florida. You will be asked questions regarding your travels/destination. If traveling from certain high risk areas, you will be asked to pull to a separate lane and the Department of Health will complete further screening. For the most up to date information regarding road closures and checkpoints please contact the Florida Department of Transportation by visiting their website www.fdot.gov or calling 850-414-4100.
3.How many people who have tested positive for COVID-19 in Nassau County are now released from isolation?
- As of this date, the Department of Health reports that of the 26 cases confirmed in Nassau County, 11 have been released from isolation. You can view information regarding all testing (both positive and negative) on the F.D.O.H website
4.Are we required to wear masks in public?
-We recommend the public continue to follow the CDC and DOH guidelines which have been recently updated:
CDC recommends wearing cloth face mask in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., grocery stores, pharmacies).
Social Distancing means keeping space between yourself and other people outside of your home
Stay at least 6 feet from other people
Do not gather in groups
Stay out of crowded places and avoid mass gatherings
If you are at risk or have underlying health conditions, avoid crowds and maintain “social distancing” practices.
Stay home and away from others whenever ill
Cough/sneeze into your elbow, sleeve, or a tissue (and throw the used tissue into the trash)
Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing, or having been in a public place; if soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
Avoid touching common surfaces in public places – door handles, ATM buttons, handrails, etc. Use a tissue or your sleeve to cover your hand or finger if you must touch something; avoid touching your face, eyes, nose, and mouth.
Clean and disinfect frequently-touched surfaces to remove germs every day (e.g., tables and counters, doorknobs, light switches, steering wheels, keyboards and mice, faucets, remotes, and phones)
5.Is there a testing site in Nassau County?
- At this time, there is not a public testing site in Nassau County. Residents who are experiencing symptoms should call their primary care doctor for further instruction, or utilize the Testing Site located at TIAA Bank Field, Parking Lot J. The site will operate seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for as long as supplies last, and is available at no cost. ASL and Spanish interpreters will be available to assist
Those attempting to be tested should:
• Bring their own pen
• Photo Identification
• Refrain from taking any fever-reducing medicine four to six hours before testing
• Remain inside of vehicle at all times
Please keep in mind that a maximum of four people per car will be screened and tested; and each person must be sitting at a functioning window. Additional passengers will be asked to move to the back of the line or return the following day.
6.Do employees need a pass provided by their employer stating their essential status?
- No, a pass is not required. However, the Governor issued an Executive Order 20-91 (Essential Services and Activities During COVID-19 Emergency) on April 1, 2020 that states all persons in Florida shall limit their movements and personal interactions outside of their home to only those necessary to obtain or provide essential services or conduct essential activities.
7.Where can I find clarification on what is considered ‘essential’ in reference to the Governors executive stay at home order?
- For guidance in determining what is considered an essential business you may visit www.cisa.gov or see a list here: https://www.floridadisaster.org/. Please watch Sheriff Bill Leeper’s Public Service Announcement “Words Have Meaning” on NassauEM Facebook page, The Nassau County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page, or on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8m1zmIw0T-o).
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