COVID-19 is a communicable disease that is spread through the respiratory droplets that someone infected with the virus produces when they cough, sneeze, or talk. Individuals with a COVID-19 infection who do not have, or experience symptoms can still be contagious and may be unaware they are spreading the disease to others. Masks and other cloth face coverings have been shown to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission by acting as a barrier for the respiratory droplets and helping prevent the spread between individuals.
Between July 7th and July 21st, the number of COVID-19 cases for the Oneida Nation Health Department jurisdiction increased from 50 to 71, indicating the virus is continuing to spread throughout the community. This demonstrates the importance of safety measures and the need for additional precautions, so we can help control and prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the community. Wearing a mask, along with regular handwashing, use of cough etiquette, and practicing good hygiene are effective ways to reduce COVID-19 transmission within the community.
On Wednesday, July 22nd, the Oneida Nation Public Health Officer issued an order that requires Oneida Nation citizens to wear face coverings in public places in order to slow the spread of COVID-19 in the community. This order mandates that every individual five (5) years and older who is present on the Oneida Nation Reservation must wear a face covering when coming into contact with anyone who is not a household member. This requirement includes the following areas: indoor areas open to the public, while driving or riding Tribal transportation or a qualifying vehicle, in public, or at a mass gathering indoors or outdoors, unless exempted under this section.
“In order to protect, preserve and promote the general health, safety and welfare of the community, it is necessary to take this step” says Michelle Myers. For more information about this masking order, you can contact Community Health Services at 920-869-4040.
To read the order, click here.
