The state is dedicated to continuing the trend of empowering local public health agencies to respond effectively to the needs of their communities. And by standing up new community testing sites, Colorado is tapping into the culture of collaboration that exists in every corner of our state to strengthen our COVID-19 response.
Local public health agencies, cities, and counties in Colorado should lead by example to:
- Use the resources the state has provided;
- Set up testing sites and make it easy for people to get tested;
- Encourage community members to get tested;
- Enforce the mask ordinance and promote mask wearing;
- And foster a sense of unity and responsibility so that people understand that we all have an obligation to each other to do the right thing.
To complement local efforts, individuals should:
- Keep a safe distance of 6 feet or more;
- Wear a mask;
- Wash your hands frequently;
- Avoid large gatherings and crowded areas;
- And protect at-risk populations like older Coloradans and those with pre-existing health conditions.
This is a crucial time in our fight against the spread of COVID-19. As cases rise in some of our neighboring states, and with flu season right around the corner, we have to keep our guard up – especially now. That is why new testing sites, control at the local level, and taking personal responsibility, are so important.
There is no reason why a severe outbreak in one corner of our state should cause any region to have to shut down. But if left unchecked, this virus will spread rapidly, and we will have no choice but to impose severe restrictions in order to save lives and preserve the capacity of our hospital system.
We must all do right by each other, protect each other, and do our part.
