COVID-19 Weekly County Update

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District 2 COVID-19 Update

COVID-19

Yesterday, Governor Ducey held a press conference extending the Stay Home, Stay Healthy, Stay Connected Executive Order from May 1st to May 15th. The goal is to not only return stronger economically but to return healthy with a gradual and phased in approach. Read more here.

Maricopa County remains under the official declaration of a local emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic, while the State of Arizona remains under a “Stay Home” order.  The Maricopa County Joint Information Center (JIC) is compiling a weekly list of resources for County residents to manage the physical, economic, social and emotional impacts of this declaration.  Residents are encouraged to visit maricopa.gov/COVID19 for the most up-to-date information.


Testing Update

testing

 

Governor Doug Ducey announced that the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS), in partnership with healthcare partners across the state, are joining forces to launch the Arizona Testing Blitz with the goal of increasing COVID-19 testing statewide. The Arizona Testing Blitz aims to test 10,000-20,000 Arizonans for COVID-19 every Saturday for three consecutive weeks, beginning Saturday, May 2, 2020. For locations go here.

The Arizona Department of Health Services has adjusted its guidelines for COVID-19 testing so that anyone who believes they have been exposed to the virus can be tested, not just those at higher risk or with specific symptoms.  Keep in mind, a shortage of personal protective equipment is still limiting the ability to test in some instances.

People who believe they should be tested for COVID-19 should work with their healthcare provider.  You can call the Arizona COVID-19 hotline at 844-542-8201 for more information about testing options and availability in your area.


Long Term Care Facilities

long term care

Maricopa County Public Health identified long-term care facilities such as nursing homes and hospice as being at a greater risk for the spread of COVID-19. Public Health is working closely with long-term care facilities to identify possible cases right away to ensure they are tested and other patients are protected from exposure. This includes making sure the facility has all of the information and personal protective equipment (PPE) it needs to limit the spread of the virus. Public Health also offers weekly webinars to help facilities manage the increased risk. Public Health issued new guidelines to long-term care facilities as of April 20 and prioritized additional personal protective equipment to protect health care providers and residents. Public Health does not have regulatory authority over these facilities, but continues to offer support to help facilities limit the spread of the virus and protect residents and staff.


Update on Personal Protective Equipment

PPE Distribution Numbers

 

Maricopa County has now distributed more than half a million pieces of personal protective equipment.  The Unified Command is doing everything possible to secure additional PPE for health care providers and first responders despite limited supply. The County has now distributed more than half a million pieces of personal protective equipment.  The Unified Command is doing everything possible to secure additional PPE for health care providers and first responders despite limited supply. Read the press release here.


Maricopa County and Community Partners Provide Resources to People in Crisis

covid virus

In this community, partnerships between government bodies, private industry, non-governmental agencies, non-profit organizations and others play an important role in providing critical services to those in need, especially during an emergency. Maricopa County’s Community Organizations Active in Disaster group (COAD) is stepping up to provide support services to residents in coordination with Maricopa County’s efforts.  Read more here.


Elective Surgeries Resume

Governor Ducey issued an Executive Order announcing that elective surgeries would be able to resume on May 1.  Hospitals, dental offices, and other health care facilities will have to show they have implemented measures to keep the public safe. Read more >


Small Business Assistance

small business

Many local businesses need help during the pandemic. Congress passed a new coronavirus relief bill that includes more than $300 million in funding for small business loans. In the meantime, Maricopa County Public Health has a redesigned resource page for businesses that include FAQ’s, health guidance, and information about financial assistance.


Resources for Domestic Violence Situations

Sadly, reports of domestic violence are on the rise. The Governor’s “Stay Home, Stay Healthy, Stay Connected” order provides exceptions for those in domestic violence situations for whom home is not a safe place. The Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence has resources that may be helpful to those in this difficult situation.

Domestic Violence

Additional Resources

We know a lot of community members are struggling to make ends meet right now.  Find Help Phoenix compiles free and almost free services specific to Maricopa County that may help during these challenging times. Learn more >


Click it, Park it, Pop it

Library Curbside Pickup

Watch the Video


Maricopa County Library District is now offering curbside pickup for books and other materials at most county library locations. It’s as easy as 1-2-3: Click it, park it, pop it.  Learn more > 


Weekend Activity Ideas? Spin the Wheel!

Weekend Activity

Watch the Video


Dist. 2 News - Fountain Hills Special Election

maricopa vote

The Maricopa County Elections Department mailed 17,292 ballots to Fountain Hills voters eligible for the May 19 all-mail election.

The Town of Fountain Hills is holding a special election on Propositions 427, 428 and 429. Eligible voters should expect to see a yellow envelope in their mailbox within the next few days.

Voters can verify their registration status, learn what’s on their ballot, and track their ballot at BeBallotReady.Vote. Due to the Stay at Home order, the Fountain Hills drop box will not open until May 4. The Town’s ballot replacement site will only be open on Election Day, May 19, to limit the public health risk of potential exposure to COVID-19. The site will provide 6-feet of physical distancing at all check-in stations and voting booths, and poll workers are trained to regularly clean frequently touched surfaces. The Elections Department will also provide gloves for all voters and poll workers.

If voters need a replacement ballot, they can call (602) 506-1511. For more election information, visit BeBallotReady.Vote. Election Day for Fountain Hills residents is on Tuesday, May 19, 2020.



Sincerely,
Steve Chucri, District 2
Maricopa County Board of Supervisors
www.maricopa.gov/steve
602-506-7431

TRUSTED SOURCES:

Nationally: CDC

State: ADHS

Locally: Maricopa County Public Health

QUESTIONS:

All information requests related Maricopa County’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic should be directed to the Joint Information Center using the email address caomedia@maricopa.gov.