COVID-19 Updates
by J. Renee Livsey, RN, BC | November 30, 2020
On November 30, 2020, Governor Brian P. Kemp signed Executive Order 11.30.20.01 and Executive Order 11.30.20.02, extending Georgia's Public Health State of Emergency until January 8, 2021, and extending current COVID-19 restrictions. Executive Order 11.30.20.02 also includes changes that allow nurses and pharmacists to administer the pending COVID-19 vaccine, including in a drive-thru setting, and permits any nurse or pharmacist to observe patients for the requisite 15 minute window after receiving the vaccine.
Both Orders take effect on December 1, 2020 at 12:00 AM. Executive Order 11.30.20.02 runs through December 15 at 11:59 PM.
The Governor's executive orders are available to be read here: https://gov.georgia.gov/executive-action/executive-orders
COVID-19 Alert: Cases are Rising
COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths across the United States are rising. As cold weather moves in, people spend more time indoors, and the holidays approach, take steps to slow the spread of COVID-19. Wear a mask, stay at least 6 feet apart, avoid crowds, and wash your hands often. The more steps you take, the more you are protected against COVID-19. View Cases in the U.S. and your state on the data tracker.
The CDC continues to recommend that we continue following certain guidelines. This is especially important for older adults and people of any age who are immuno-compromised or have serious underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes and asthma.
Continue to practice social distancing
- While in public settings, wear a cloth face covering that covers your nose and mouth.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and wash your hands often for at least 20 seconds (or use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol).
- Buy groceries and medicine, go to the doctor, and complete banking activities online when possible.
- If you must go in person, stay at least 6 feet away from others.
- Get deliveries and takeout, and limit in-person contact as much as possible.
Prevent the spread of COVID-19, if you are sick or have *symptoms
- Stay at home if you are sick, except to get medical care.
- Avoid public transportation, ride-sharing, or taxis.
- Separate yourself from other people and pets in your home.
- There is no specific treatment for COVID-19, but you can seek medical care to help relieve your symptoms.
- If you need medical attention, call ahead.
*Keep in mind that even though you do not have symptoms, you may have the virus and pass it on to others - this is called asymptomatic transmission. It is a good idea for everyone to get tested. For information on free COVID-19 testing sites, go to https://dph.georgia.gov/
Ref: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/
