In light of the coronavirus or COVID-19 pandemic, we at Team Espy have officially suspended all public events and fundraisers for our campaign for the next three weeks in order to protect Mike, our staff, and our supporters. This makes online fundraising all the more impactful. If you can afford to, please consider making a contribution to our campaign so we can continue to stay on track ahead of our end-of-quarter fundraising deadline. We appreciate your generosity and support during this unprecedented and challenging time.

Team –

By now you’ve likely heard a lot of different information regarding the coronavirus or COVID-19 pandemic. We wanted to be sure to share the most up-to-date and accurate information from the Center for Disease Control in order to keep you and your loved ones safe:

The best way to prevent contracting this illness is by avoiding exposure to it:

• Practice social distancing if possible – only leave the house for necessities, and avoid gatherings of ten people or more;
• Stay at least six feet away from others and avoid shaking hands;
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol;
• Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.

If you are sick:

• Stay home as much as possible;
• Sneeze and/or cough into your elbow or a tissue;
• Wear a face mask when around other people or going to a medical office;
• Coronavirus symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. If you have symptoms and seek testing, contact your physician or healthcare provider.

Anyone can contract coronavirus and should take it seriously, but those most vulnerable include elderly adults, pregnant women, and people who have serious underlying medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes, HIV, or lung disease.

Here in Mississippi, at least 80 cases of coronavirus have been confirmed in the past week, and that number will surely grow as the virus spreads and testing becomes more accessible. Tests are available only to those displaying symptoms, and testing will soon be expanded to six clinics in our state.

Today, Governor Tate Reeves signed an executive order to close Mississippi’s schools until April 17th to keep our children safe and healthy. Families struggling with food insecurity during this time can find a list of schools providing free or reduced meals for pickup here.

We hope this information helps, and will continue to stay in touch. For more information on coronavirus, visit the CDC website here.

Stay safe and healthy out there,

Team Espy