It’s important to remember that schools are not the only place that students can be exposed to COVID-19.  Carefully consider any potential exposures to large groups, activities, and people outside the household.  All kids should stay home if they have a fever or display symptoms like a runny nose, sore throat, headache, or stomachache.  Doing this can prevent multiple exposures and infections of other students and staff.

When COVID-19 cases increase, we get a lot of questions about why the death count remains relatively low.  This follows a pattern we would expect in Public Health.  Typically, hospitalization rates start to increase two to three weeks after cases start to rise, and the number of deaths reported due to COVID-19 begin to go up two to three weeks after that.

While it’s encouraging that we’ve learned more about treating the symptoms of COVID-19, COVID-19 can still cause serious illness in anyone, not just people at high risk.  Please don’t underestimate it.  Do your part by taking proven, preventive measures to protect your health and the health of those around you.

If you’re experiencing COVID-like symptoms or just want to put your mind at ease before going out in public or traveling, you can find a place to get tested by visiting Maricopa.gov/COVID19Testing.  We have a list of community events where you can get a diagnostic test for free, as well as links to other options through Arizona Department of Health Services or private partners.

If you test positive for COVID-19, you will be contacted by Maricopa County Public Health.

Still waiting for your test results?  Here’s what to do while you wait.

Flu vaccine has been shown to reduce the risk of having to go to the doctor with flu by 40-60%.  This isn’t just good for you; it’s good for our doctors and hospitals!  Getting a flu shot now means you’ll be protected for the entire season and, with your lower risk of needing medical care, you’ll be doing your part to help our health care system during a time when more people are being hospitalized for COVID-19.

If you have insurance, check with your health care provider or locate a flu shot clinic near you using Vaccine Finder.  If you are uninsured or underinsured, visit Maricopa.gov/flu to find a community event where adults and children can receive a FREE flu shot.  These free events are open to ALL in the community, including those with insurance. 

6 reasons to get the flu vaccine this year (VIDEO) >

Maricopa County is putting federal CARES Act funds to good use, helping individuals, families, businesses, and nonprofits. You can find an overview of programs at Maricopa.gov/TakeCare, or you can click on any of the following links to go straight to qualification requirements and applications.

• Crisis rental assistance
• Crisis utility assistance
• Business and nonprofit grants
• Food bank assistance
• Funeral assistance
  
  

The Elections Department continues to do its job counting remaining ballots to ensure a full, accurate count.  More than 60,000 ballots were reported this morning.  Another round of results will be released around 7 p.m. tonight.  Look for the updated totals at Results.Maricopa.Vote.