My team and I have been working hard to stay on top of the latest information and recommendations from health officials about the coronavirus, or COVID-19. Since there is so much circulating over media, I wanted to reach out and ensure you have the most up-to-date information to stay safe and healthy as experts work to stop the spread of the virus.
The most important thing you can do to stay safe is use common-sense solutions, as outlined below. The information is also available in Chinese, Spanish, Tagalog, Arabic and Vietnamese.
I would also recommend you make use of the following resources:
- Sign up for San Francisco’s official text updates by texting COVID19SF to 888-777
- San Francisco Department of Public Health: up-to-date local health advisories and best practices
- San Francisco Economic and Workforce Development: guidance for employees and employers
- San Francisco Department of Emergency Management: summary of actions, factsheets, educational videos and resources
- San Francisco Unified School District: updates on safety actions, school closures, and resources on how to talk to your children about the coronavirus
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: information available in Chinese and Spanish
- World Health Organization: including travel advice, information on vaccine development, and common myths.
I also want to update you on what’s been happening at the state level. Yesterday, Governor Newsom issued a new executive order further enhancing California’s ability to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Governor’s order states:
- Large non-essential gatherings that include 250 people or more should be postponed or cancelled. (But remember that in San Francisco, gatherings of more than 100 people should be postponed).
- Smaller gatherings held in venues that do not allow social distancing of six feet per person may be postponed or cancelled.
- Gatherings of individuals who are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should be limited to not more than 10 people.
- The state may commandeer property for temporary residences and medical facilities for quarantining, isolating or treating individuals.
- The one-week waiting period is waived for those who are unemployed or disabled as a result of COVID-19 (more information on that here).
Fortunately, our city and our state have prepared for a health crisis like this for years. I want to thank the health care, first responder and education professionals who have been on the front line. California and San Francisco are working around the clock to keep folks safe, and to provide everyone with the information they need. I urge you to look out for guidance from official sources, such as those listed above, and avoid untrustworthy news sources or scams claiming to have a cure for the virus.
I will reach out with further information as we receive it. I’m confident that if we rely on one another, listen to the experts, and use common-sense solutions, our City, our state, and our world will get through this together.
Wishing you all the very best during this time,
David
PS — You may have searched the shelves of your local pharmacy or corner store for hand sanitizer and come up short. If you’re in a pinch, you can make your own — along with regularly washing your hands with soap and water, and staying home when possible, these are the best solutions to staying healthy.