BROWN COUNTY, WI (WTAQ) – Brown County leaders joined forces Monday in an effort to inspire people to help each other during the COVID-19 outbreak – and to ask for help in supporting local communities as a whole.
Major players in local government and healthcare services are taking steps to protect themselves and those around them – in hopes the community follows suit. But while social distancing is recommended, closures are being implemented, and large gatherings are banned, you can still help keep local businesses afloat.
“Now is the time for our community to come together – while staying farther apart – to support one another,” says Green Bay Mayor Eric Genrich, “You can support local businesses by requesting delivery or pickup of goods, services, and food. Donate food and other daily necessities to local pantries to help those who are out of work.”
But as we begin to stock up on supplies ahead of the potential of more serious potential closures, it’s always recommended to avoid panic and apply common sense.
“Do not hoard supplies. Healthcare supplies are needed for the healthcare professionals and those who are sick. Stop and think about how much supplies and food you really need to have on-hand,” Genrich says, “Look out for one another. If you know someone who needs access to food or other necessities, help them.”
There are currently no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Brown County, but doctors and healthcare experts expect that to change as more testing becomes available. The nearest confirmed case as of Monday was in Outagamie County. It’s always important to keep an eye on legitimate sources.
“Know your sources of information. The CDC, Wisconsin Department of Health Services, Brown County Department of Health, along with local healthcare systems – are all reliable local sources of information,” Genrich says.
By eliminating contact with others and practicing social distancing, health care systems will be able to better meet the needs of those who may have the virus. It also allows them to possibly free-up beds and resources necessary to combat COVID-19.
That’s part of why Brown County Executive Troy Streckenbach is asking for help in supporting people working to prevent the spread.
“We’re asking the federal government to provide us the resources that are absolutely necessary in order for us to protect first responders and healthcare workers – we need the national stockpile to be opened up,” Streckenbach says, “We need the federal government to recognize and address the things that are going to happen right here locally and the disruption it’s going to have on families and businesses.”
If you believe you’ve been exposed to the virus or are experiencing symptoms, health care professionals ask that you avoid coming into the hospitals and clinic, but instead contact your provider for further instruction.
