MASK UP. LATHER UP. SOCIALLY DISTANCE.
STAY SAFE. SAVE LIVES.
TIPS FOR A SAFE THANKSGIVING
Thanksgiving is approaching and gatherings can increase chances of getting and spreading COVID-19. Please consider alternative celebrations. The safest way to celebrate is with your household members.
- Host virtual meals with family and friends.
- Stay in and watch parades, movies, and TV shows
- Wear your mask.
- Wash your hands/use hand sanitizer.
- Keep your distance from others.
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COVID-19 VIGILANCE
Please take note of this important message from the Martha’s Vineyard Regional Emergency Management Public Information Office, Martha’s Vineyard Boards of Health (MVBOH), Martha’s Vineyard Hospital (MVH), local police, Island Health Care, the Community Ambassadors, and many others.
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WEAR YOUR MASK PROPERLY
When worn properly, masks prevent the spread of COVID-19. You could have COVID-19, have no symptoms, and still infect other people. Masks make all the difference in protecting yourself and others. It is on all of us to stay safe, be responsible, and wear a cloth face mask.
Cloth masks should be made of at least two layers of material. Wearing scarves, bandanas, and gaitors alone are strongly discouraged. Medical-grade masks are also strongly discouraged as they should be reserved for healthcare workers.
Continue practicing a minimum of 6 foot social distancing. Wash your hands often.
For more, visit Mass.gov/MaskUp
Cloth masks should be made of at least two layers of material. Wearing scarves, bandanas, and gaitors alone are strongly discouraged. Medical-grade masks are also strongly discouraged as they should be reserved for healthcare workers.
Continue practicing a minimum of 6 foot social distancing. Wash your hands often.
For more, visit Mass.gov/MaskUp
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NEW STAY-AT-HOME ADVISORY, FACE MASK REQUIREMENTS, & GATHERING RESTRICTIONS
There are new Stay-at-Home Advisories, Face Mask Requirements, and Gathering Restrictions that everyone should adhere to in order to slow the spread of COVID-19.
Stay at home between the hours of 10 PM and 5 AM. During this time only leave for essential services.
Everyone over the age of 5 MUST wear a mask in ALL public places (indoors & outdoors) even if able to socially distance. Masks are encouraged for children 2-5 years old. When carpooling with someone not in your household masks are required and ventilation is encouraged.
Private indoor gatherings must have no more than 10 people and outdoor gatherings must have no more than 10 people. Gatherings at event venues in public settings must have no more than 25 people indoors and 50-100 people outdoors depending upon whether the community is low or high-risk. If more than 50 people will be in attendance, local Boards of Health must be notified at least a week in advance. Face coverings and social distancing of at least 6 feet are still required. All gatherings must end and attendees disperse by 9:30 PM.
For more information, visit Mass.gov/StayHome, Mass.gov/MaskRules and/or Mass.gov/Gatherings.
Stay at home between the hours of 10 PM and 5 AM. During this time only leave for essential services.
Everyone over the age of 5 MUST wear a mask in ALL public places (indoors & outdoors) even if able to socially distance. Masks are encouraged for children 2-5 years old. When carpooling with someone not in your household masks are required and ventilation is encouraged.
Private indoor gatherings must have no more than 10 people and outdoor gatherings must have no more than 10 people. Gatherings at event venues in public settings must have no more than 25 people indoors and 50-100 people outdoors depending upon whether the community is low or high-risk. If more than 50 people will be in attendance, local Boards of Health must be notified at least a week in advance. Face coverings and social distancing of at least 6 feet are still required. All gatherings must end and attendees disperse by 9:30 PM.
For more information, visit Mass.gov/StayHome, Mass.gov/MaskRules and/or Mass.gov/Gatherings.
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A MESSAGE FROM THE PUBLIC SAFETY CHIEFS OF MARTHA'S VINEYARD:
On behalf of the Island’s first responders, those who selflessly come to your homes and businesses during times of possible crisis or strife, we collectively request that you all aid us by adhering with the most recent COVID-19 preventative measures and recommendations.
As a reminder, these simple directions can be found at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital (MVH) or at the Commonwealth of MA.
Like you all, our staff members are Islanders too and are serving you on the frontline in the battle against this dreaded disease. We as the Martha’s Vineyard Chiefs from EMS, Fire, and Police thank you for helping us to protect our employees by doing your best to safeguard both yourselves and those you love. Only by working together can we succeed in eradicating this illness from our Island.
As a reminder, these simple directions can be found at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital (MVH) or at the Commonwealth of MA.
Like you all, our staff members are Islanders too and are serving you on the frontline in the battle against this dreaded disease. We as the Martha’s Vineyard Chiefs from EMS, Fire, and Police thank you for helping us to protect our employees by doing your best to safeguard both yourselves and those you love. Only by working together can we succeed in eradicating this illness from our Island.
FREE DRIVE-THRU COVID-19 TESTING
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MASK ORDER & MARTHA'S VINEYARD HOSPITAL VALVE MASK PROHIBITION
SATURDAY, MAY 9, 2020
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- English Video Link: https://vimeo.com/416687960
- English Download Link: https://vimeo.com/user7348840/download/416687960/9c230429d7
- Portuguese Video Link: https://vimeo.com/416687988
- Portuguese Download Link: https://vimeo.com/user7348840/download/416687988/bf32a97d5a
MASKS AND FACE COVERINGS
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Wear a mask or face covering to prevent the spread of COVID-19, especially when social distancing is difficult!
*Please note that masks and face coverings are effective only if worn and disposed of properly and used in combination with frequent hand washing and maintaining 6 foot social distancing!*
*Please note that masks and face coverings are effective only if worn and disposed of properly and used in combination with frequent hand washing and maintaining 6 foot social distancing!*
| DIY Cloth Face Covering Instructions |
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COPING WITH STRESS DURING COVID-19
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SAFE PRACTICES FOR FOOD SHOPPING, TAKE OUT FOOD, AND GAS STATION USE
FRIDAY, APRIL 3, 2020
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- English Video Link: https://vimeo.com/403804612
- English Download Link: https://vimeo.com/user7348840/download/403804612/34aa8f9ec9
- Portuguese Video Link: https://vimeo.com/403826575
- Portuguese Download Link: https://vimeo.com/user7348840/download/403826575/bdf8e6822b
TIPS FOR SELF AND HOME SANITIZATION
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2020
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| 04-01-2020 COVID-19 Self and Home Sanitization Press Release |
- English Video Link: https://vimeo.com/403007959
- English Download Link: https://vimeo.com/user7348840/download/403007959/a0e66c8166
- Portuguese Video Link: https://vimeo.com/403144483
- Portuguese Download Link: https://vimeo.com/user7348840/download/403144483/06f48e01ab
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MARTHA'S VINEYARD HOSPITAL & NANTUCKET COTTAGE HOSPITAL
PRESS RELEASE
SATURDAY, MARCH 21, 2020
| 03-21-2020 MVH & NCH COVID-19 Press Release |
COVID-19 SITUATIONAL UPDATE
FRIDAY, MARCH 20, 2020
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- CodeRED (Island-wide Emergency Alert System): https://public.coderedweb.com/CNE/en-US/978F92D50FBE
- Dukes County Website: https://www.dukescounty.org/
- Martha's Vineyard Community Services: https://www.mvcommunityservices.org
OAK BLUFFS COVID-19 OPERATIONS PLAN
EFFECTIVE TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2020 - FRIDAY, APRIL 17, 2020
| 03-16-2020 Oak Bluffs COVID-19 Operations Plan |
COVID-19 INFO FROM TOWN OF OAK BLUFFS
FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020
Courtesy of https://www.oakbluffsma.gov/AlertCenter.aspx?AID=Coronavirus-Information-13
Island Boards of Health, Emergency Managers, Hospital and School representatives are working together to provide the latest update regarding a new Coronavirus called COVID-19, first identified in Wuhan, China, in December 2019, as well as to highlight the plans in place in our community to address any local implications of this virus.
Island towns have been preparing for emerging infectious diseases for many years. While COVID-19 is a new virus, the coordination, communication efforts, and infrastructure around our public health preparedness is firmly in place.
To date, there has been one confirmed case (from February 1, 2020) of COVID-19 in the state. According to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH), the risk to the public from COVID-19 remains low. Island Boards of Health are receiving regular updates from MDPH and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on this rapidly evolving situation. The Health Departments and Emergency Managers are in regular contact with other town officials, Martha’s Vineyard Hospital and Martha’s Vineyard Public Schools to discuss status reports, directives and messaging for the community. In addition, we are participating in webinars hosted by MDPH, which offer updates and guidance for local health departments, school officials and other stakeholders in the community.
We are asking public and private businesses to help “spread” helpful hygiene and sanitization measures, by providing hand sanitizer, handi-wipes and signage to reinforce prevention strategies, including reminding sick employees to stay home. The Health Departments will also be contacting food establishments and providers to reinforce these messages.
Martha’s Vineyard Plan to Address COVID-19
The Island Towns have an Emergency Preparedness plan in place that encompasses assessment and response to likely public health threats (including pandemics) and other all-hazard emergencies that might affect the community.
This plan outlines the key stakeholders that would be consulted with to form action plans and work collaboratively with including Boards of Health, Emergency Managers, EMS, representatives from the Boards of Selectmen, Town Administrators, Police, Fire, Schools, Councils on Aging, Public Works Departments, Martha’s Vineyard Hospital, Island Health Clinics, Red Cross and others as needed.
Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) and Other Volunteers – Island residents with medical expertise, as well as those with non-medical experience, who assist at flu clinics and other public health and wellness events. These volunteers are trained (using the national Incident Command System) in their likely roles in a public health emergency. If COVID-19 adversely affects the Island in the near future, MRC and other volunteers may be deployed to assist in addressing the virus.
The Towns are continuing to monitor this situation, prepare information to keep Island residents informed, and provide any response that may be needed.
What Can You Do?
There are steps you can take to avoid coming into contact with viruses such as COVID-19 and Influenza (which is rampant at this time). Remember, it’s not too late to get your flu shot!
There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. However, as a reminder, CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:
For information about handwashing, see CDC's handwashing website
For information specific to healthcare, see CDC's Hand Hygiene in Healthcare Settings
For information in Portuguese visit the MA Department of Public Health
These are everyday habits that can help prevent the spread of several viruses.
CDC does have specific guidance for travelers.
Resources for More Information:
Island Boards of Health, Emergency Managers, Hospital and School representatives are working together to provide the latest update regarding a new Coronavirus called COVID-19, first identified in Wuhan, China, in December 2019, as well as to highlight the plans in place in our community to address any local implications of this virus.
Island towns have been preparing for emerging infectious diseases for many years. While COVID-19 is a new virus, the coordination, communication efforts, and infrastructure around our public health preparedness is firmly in place.
To date, there has been one confirmed case (from February 1, 2020) of COVID-19 in the state. According to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH), the risk to the public from COVID-19 remains low. Island Boards of Health are receiving regular updates from MDPH and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on this rapidly evolving situation. The Health Departments and Emergency Managers are in regular contact with other town officials, Martha’s Vineyard Hospital and Martha’s Vineyard Public Schools to discuss status reports, directives and messaging for the community. In addition, we are participating in webinars hosted by MDPH, which offer updates and guidance for local health departments, school officials and other stakeholders in the community.
We are asking public and private businesses to help “spread” helpful hygiene and sanitization measures, by providing hand sanitizer, handi-wipes and signage to reinforce prevention strategies, including reminding sick employees to stay home. The Health Departments will also be contacting food establishments and providers to reinforce these messages.
Martha’s Vineyard Plan to Address COVID-19
The Island Towns have an Emergency Preparedness plan in place that encompasses assessment and response to likely public health threats (including pandemics) and other all-hazard emergencies that might affect the community.
This plan outlines the key stakeholders that would be consulted with to form action plans and work collaboratively with including Boards of Health, Emergency Managers, EMS, representatives from the Boards of Selectmen, Town Administrators, Police, Fire, Schools, Councils on Aging, Public Works Departments, Martha’s Vineyard Hospital, Island Health Clinics, Red Cross and others as needed.
Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) and Other Volunteers – Island residents with medical expertise, as well as those with non-medical experience, who assist at flu clinics and other public health and wellness events. These volunteers are trained (using the national Incident Command System) in their likely roles in a public health emergency. If COVID-19 adversely affects the Island in the near future, MRC and other volunteers may be deployed to assist in addressing the virus.
The Towns are continuing to monitor this situation, prepare information to keep Island residents informed, and provide any response that may be needed.
What Can You Do?
There are steps you can take to avoid coming into contact with viruses such as COVID-19 and Influenza (which is rampant at this time). Remember, it’s not too late to get your flu shot!
There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. However, as a reminder, CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Follow CDC’s recommendations for using a facemask.
- CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19.
- Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in a close setting people who are taking care of someone in close settings (at home or in a health care facility).
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
For information about handwashing, see CDC's handwashing website
For information specific to healthcare, see CDC's Hand Hygiene in Healthcare Settings
For information in Portuguese visit the MA Department of Public Health
These are everyday habits that can help prevent the spread of several viruses.
CDC does have specific guidance for travelers.
Resources for More Information:
- Island Health Departments: https://www.mvboh.com/
- Island Public Schools: http://box451.temp.domains/~mvypsorg/Staging/
- MA Department of Public Health https://www.mass.gov/guides/information-on-theoutbreak-of-2019- novel-coronavirus-covid-19
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019- nCoV/summary.html
- World Health Organization: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novelcoronavirus-2019
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