On March 11, 2020 the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) announced the first reported coronavirus (COVID-19) case in the state. MSDH recommended extra precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 to older members of our communities and those with chronic medical conditions who are at highest risk of hospitalization and death from infection due to COVID-19 activity.
At this time, we have temporarily suspended all off-campus visitors as a precautionary measure. EMSH’s main concern is to keep the clients and individuals served at our programs safe and healthy, and we will continue to actively observe the situation and will continue to coordinate with local and state agencies.
EMSH is following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), and the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH). Preventive measures recommended against COVID-19 include the same measures taken against other illnesses like the flu, including:
• Staying home if you are sick, and avoiding close contact with anyone who is sick
• Cover your coughs and sneezes, use a tissue when possible, and throw the tissue away
• Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly
• Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
COVID-19 poses a more serious risk for older adults and individuals with a chronic illness. In limiting visitation, EMSH is taking precautionary steps purely out of an abundance of caution in order to minimize the chances of exposure. There are no cases of the COVID-19 coronavirus reported in any EMSH programs at this time. We will continually evaluate the situation and take the appropriate steps in the best interests of the individuals served at EMSH programs.