On March 16, 2020, some community leaders met at the White Pine County Emergency Operations Center regarding the COVID-19 pandemic and the impacts of State and Federal mandates on White Pine County. The Local Emergency Planning Committee, in coordination with the County Health Officer, Dr. David Byun, and the Interim Director of Emergency Management, Brett North, will be the key players in the flow of information and local response during the current health situation.
At this time, White Pine County is following directives from Federal and State health organizations to slow the spread of COVID-19. As a result of those directives, the Aquatic Center will only allow lane swimming and therapy use. Classes, group lessons, and open swim has been cancelled until further notice and the Aquatic Center has changed its Saturday schedule to allow for only lap swimming in the morning. The Senior Center will not be allowing patrons to come into the Senior Center to eat lunch or for activities starting 3/17/20. However, regular patrons can get their lunch-to-go in a drive-thru fashion at the Senior Center or may contact Chris at 289-2742 about delivery or for more information. Home Bound Meals are still being delivered.
Operations at City and County Offices are business as usual, but local governments are asking patrons and meeting attendees to stay home if they are sick to follow the 6-foot distance rule whenever possible. Jury Trials and non-essential Court hearings are being continued for at least 4 weeks and telephonic and audio/video appearances are being encouraged in local Courts. The White Pine County School District has implemented changes to allow students to continue their education at home for 4 weeks and to receive school meals with minimal impact on summer vacation. However, sports have been discontinued until further notice.
In regards to pets, there is no evidence to suggest that dogs or cats have become ill with this virus can infect animals or humans. Those who are sick should restrict contact with pets and other animals out of abundance of caution. If one must care for a pet or be around animals while sick, wash hands before and after interaction.
William Bee Ririe Hospital and Clinic are working to provide the best possible response for anyone who might be ill. At this time, people who feel like they might be exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms may contact the William Bee Ririe Hospital at 289-3612 or the Rural Health Clinic at 289-4040 to answer some questions to help determine the presence of the virus. If you feel an emergency exists, please call 911. The County is developing a local hotline to better address the public’s concerns. Emergency Managers are encouraging residents to seek facts about COVID-19 from trusted sources as opposed to relying on information found on social media, and are likewise encouraging the public to remain calm, to not panic, and to reach out to others who may need help due to limited goods being available.