March 23, 2020

As we continue to work through the COVID-19 Coronavirus response efforts and activities we feel it is important to address travel issues and recommendations.  The best approach is to avoid travel as much as possible.  If you DO NOT have to travel or leave your home, DON’T.  Staying home away from others is the best way to help prevent coming in contact with the virus.

We recognize the fact that not everyone can stay home and many people have essential jobs to perform and must go to work.  We provide the following recommendations for use when traveling to help you lower the chance of becoming infected with the virus.  These recommendations become especially important when travelling in areas with known community transmission (spread) of the virus which now includes the Kansas City Metro area.  All but 4 counties located east of U. S. 75 Highway are currently in a local disaster declaration.  The KC Metro will be in a Stay-at-Home Order starting Tuesday.  The following link shows areas where community transmission is occurring:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/cases-updates/cases-in-us.html#reporting-cases

You will need to recheck the website frequently as it is always changing.

If you must go to work in the KC Metro area or other area with community spread we suggest you do the following:

o      Avoid stopping anywhere along your route to and from work.

§    Drive directly to work without stopping.

§    Do not leave work until you are headed home.

§    Do not stop anywhere and drive straight home from work.

o      Do not eat out for meals.  Pack your food so you do not need to leave work.

o      Do not stop for fuel while in the KC Metro area or other area where community transmission is occurring.

o      Wash you hands with soap and water frequently.  Use hand sanitizer when soap and water is not available.

o      Maintain social distancing at all times (minimum 6 feet from others).

o      Avoid gatherings (groups) of 10 or more and maintain social distancing in groups and meetings.

o      Wipe down car daily

§    Door handles, steering wheel, transmission shifter, turn signal lever (things you touch)

o                      Work from Home if possible.

For the most up to date information go to:

https://www.linncountyks.com/information-about-the-2019-novel-coronavirus-covid-19