FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The City of Watertown is part of the incident command team formed to communicate and address issues related to the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic currently developing throughout our nation. This team provides continuous connection between government leaders and public health officials across Codington County to ensure we are responding together in the best way possible. We know COVID-19 will impact our community and call on all citizens to join us in taking any and all measures possible to slow the spread of this virus. Some actions you can take include exercising proper health hygiene guidelines, staying home if you are ill, and avoiding large public gatherings.
Mayor Caron cautioned, “the situation is continuously changing and we ask for your patience as we work to slow the spread of this virus and provide essential services to the community. We will provide updates on our Facebook pages and websites.”
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Mayor’s office at (605)882-6200.
Prairie Lakes Healthcare System recommends following reliable resources provided by the CDC. The CDC and SD DOH always recommend everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
- If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol and rub your hands together until they are dry.
- For information about handwashing, see CDC’s Handwashing website.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash; or cough into the crook of your arm. Remember to wash your hands.
- Regular household cleaning spray or wipes can be used to clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
- Facemasks:
- CDC and SD DOH do not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19.
- Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of harsh cough, shortness of breath, or fever to help prevent the spread of disease.