John,

With nine confirmed or presumed cases of COVID-19, or Coronavirus, here in Arizona, I wanted to reach out with a few precautionary reminders and updates.

We all have a responsibility to help slow the spread of the virus in our community and keep our neighbors safe. Here’s what you can do:

• Cough and sneeze into your elbow, avoid large gatherings and contact with those who may be ill, disinfect “high-touch” surfaces frequently, and avoid touching your eyes, mouth, and nose as much as possible.
• Wash your hands often, especially before eating or after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose. Hands should be washed for 20 seconds with soap. If soap is not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Typical symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, coughing, and shortness of breath. If you or someone around you is experiencing these symptoms, contact a doctor immediately.
• If you are sick, please stay home except to seek medical care. While you may not be at risk for serious infection, others around you -- including the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions -- could be at great risk.

As we continue to work toward ending this crisis, it’s important to stay informed. Visit the CDC’s website for more information: cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

And for the latest local updates, see the Arizona Department of Health Services’ COVID-19 website: azdhs.gov/novel-coronavirus-home

At MCSO, the response plan to any potential infectious outbreak is developed and updated with the most recent recommendations from the County departments of Correctional Health Services (CHS), Public Health (PH), and Human Resources (HR), in addition to guidance from the Center for Disease Control (CDC).

MCSO continues to monitor the most current suggested practices made by the Maricopa County Department of Health Services and the Center for Disease Control. Maricopa County Correctional Health Services and MCSO are preparing to handle a single or large scale concern.

By following simple preventative measures and heeding the advice of public health officials, we can ensure that community spread is mitigated as much as possible.

Thank you,

-- Sheriff Paul Penzone