With cases rising, Public Health ask the public to remain vigilant about staying home when possible, keeping six feet of distance from others, and wearing masks in public.
Public Health has updated its COVID-19 FAQ page to address questions and rumors we are hearing in the community right now. The page covers topics such as:
Can COVID-19 affect children?
Can pets spread the disease?
Do hot temperatures have any impact on the spread?
Applications Now Accepted For Small Business Loan Program!
We are now accepting applications for the Maricopa County Small Business Relief Program, which provides up to $10,000 in grants to reimburse businesses and non-profits for lost revenues during March and April. Grants will be given on a first come, first served basis until the money runs out. The program is funded through the federal CARES Act.
Key qualification requirements:
Employ 25 or fewer full-time employees
Gross revenues declined by at least 25% in March and April compared to the previous year
Did not get any other COVID-related government assistance (payroll protection, SBA loan, etc.)
Located in Maricopa County, but not inside the cities of Phoenix or Mesa.
Those cities received significant CARES Act money as well and run similar programs
What Should A Business Do After An Employee Tests Positive?
With cases increasing in our community, more businesses may be wondering about the proper protocols to take when an employee gets sick or tests positive for COVID-19. Public Health has updated its COVID-19 Guidance for Businesses to address these questions. There’s also a business hotline available Monday-Friday from the 9 am to 5 pm. Business owners with questions can call 2-1-1 and follow the prompts.
Unified Command Provides PPE, Special Masks
Maricopa County Unified Command continues to work to obtain personal protective equipment and other supplies to support the community during the pandemic.
Earlier this week, staff began delivering personal protective equipment to schools as they gear up for possible in-person schooling in the fall (see video to left).
Today, the County arranged for the Arizona Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing to pick up clear masks to assist those with hearing loss during the pandemic. Traditional masks add communication challenges for people who are deaf and hard of hearing by blocking facial expressions and preventing lip reading, which are both crucial for communication.
Relief For Homeless Individuals
In addition to today’s announcement that Maricopa County has securing an air conditioned, downtown location for nighttime heat relief for people experiencing homelessness, the County and its partners are getting national recognition for efforts to house the homeless during the pandemic.
Make your voice count and help your community return stronger. Participate in the 2020 Census so Arizona receives its fair share of federal funding for infrastructure, emergency response, and community services.
All information requests related to Maricopa County’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic should be directed to the Joint Information Center using the email address caomedia@maricopa.gov.
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