No lockdown yet, but social distancing is still vital
Gov. Jay Inslee is scheduled to hold a news conference at 5:30 p.m. today to announce “enhanced strategies” to mitigate COVID-19. It will be broadcast on TVW News.
As of this afternoon, Inslee hasn’t issued a mandatory statewide lockdown or stay-at-home order.
Still many communities in the state have either issued their own, or are urging residents to voluntarily stay at home to help prevent the spread of the virus. For example, the Yakima County Health Department issued its own restrictions for residents in that area.
Social distancing is still critical to slow the spread of COVID-19. Every face-to-face interaction is an opportunity for COVID-19 to spread and impact those most at risk.
Even without an official lockdown order, the Governor and the state Department of Health are urging Washington residents to:
- Stay at home as much as you can.
- Limit trips for groceries, gas, and other essentials.
- If you must go out, stay at least 6 feet away from others at all times
If a mandatory stay-at-home order is issued affecting the Puyallup Tribal community, it would be posted by the Puyallup Tribal Council.
Costco offers special warehouse hours for Elders and disabled members
Costco announced that beginning this week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m., it will open its warehouses for members 60 and older and those with physical disabilities. The pharmacy will also be open during those times. This temporary change applies to all locations except the Business Centers, which will remain open during regular hours. Learn more.
Salish Cancer Center closed March 23 for deep cleaning
The Salish Cancer Center was closed today (March 23) for a deep cleaning. The center has not had a case of COVID-19, and the cleaning is a precautionary measure. It will reopen on Tuesday, March 24.
Additional precautions for patients
In response to the COVID-19 outbreak, Salish Cancer Center is asking patients to call ahead of their appointments to get screened for symptoms. Patients are also asked to have no more than one person accompany them to appointments. Learn more.
Remember: EAP can help you navigate through uncertain times
During times of uncertainty, it’s natural to feel stress, anxiety, grief and worry. Taking care of your emotional health will help you get through it.
Wellspring Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a Puyallup Tribal employee benefit. It offers free resources that can help you deal with uncertainty. For more information, go to www.wellspringeap.org (username EQC) or call 1-800-553-7798.
Promote wellness with #ShareYourMedicine campaign on social media
These times can be unsettling. What medicine are you using to stay well spiritually? Use the hashtag “#shareyourmedicine” and tag the Puyallup Tribe of Indians on social media and the Communications Department will share it on the Tribe’s page.
Your medicine can be anything that is keeping your spirits up, from a new song or dance, to a story, craft or skill.
