The following statement was released by Steve Saxon, Seminole City Manager, in regard to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19):

We want to put this in a way that is easy to understand. Seminole is under an Emergency Declaration. The Mayor has done the minimum to encourage our citizens to protect each other. Gatherings of 10 people put our community at risk. Gatherings of more than 10 people are irresponsible and have a high probability of ending in loss of life.

When the leading scientists who are not prone to exaggeration tell us to isolate ourselves, they are using facts already well known. At some point, all of us have rolled our eyes in frustration believing all this is an overreaction. Italy has warned us that their little towns thought they were in a bubble also. Now, that little town has banned funerals for their many victims. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) told us that if we feel we are overreacting, that is probably where we need to be.

As one doctor has told us, “all viruses, COVID-19 included, can and will mutate.” The longer we spread it the more likely it will impact a younger population. We do not want panic, but rather responsibly exercise of the basic practices of isolation, social distancing, hand washing, and sanitizing everything we touch.

HERE IS WHAT WE EXPECT (whether it is in the emergency declaration or not):

Baseball, softball, soccer, weightlifting, dancing, proms and football teams should not gather together in any way, including practices.

Churches should be going Facebook Live or another online format to broadcast their services.

Restaurants should be offering curbside or drivethru pick-up.

Limit your trips and exposure when you go to the grocery store.

If you have pharmacy needs use curbside pick-up.

IF YOU BECOME SICK:

Stay at home and if you have questions call 1-877-215-8336.

Do NOT go to the Emergency Room for testing.

Hydrate and eat Vitamin C-rich foods.

Your phone will be the key to accessing healthcare. 1-877-215-8336 is the best start in gathering information.

HERE ARE THE FACTS AS WE KNOW THEM:

There are not enough tests. Oklahoma will likely not show the true impact of increased positive tests because we have run out of re-agent, which are required to perform the tests.

Tests will not cure you.

Contact your doctor if you show symptoms.

Unless you have reached a point of hospitalization, the treatment from doctors will likely be the same as the flu; get rest, drink fluids, keep your fever down. If you have difficulty breathing, contact your doctor by phone or call 1-877-215-8336.

DO NOT GO TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM TO BE TESTED.