Amarillo Mayor Ginger Nelson issued the stay-at-home directive Monday morning that takes effect at 11:59 p.m. Monday and will be in effect until at least April 13, according to a press release from the City of Amarillo.
“It is critical that people who are not providing essential work services stay at home while the order is in effect,” Nelson said.
As of Sunday, the Amarillo Public Health Department’s reported 18 COVID-19 cases, with five in Potter County and six in Randall County. According to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), there are 14 other cases in the Texas Panhandle: Swisher (1), Moore County (1), Castro County (8), Deaf Smith (2) and Oldham County (2).
Nelson said the measures should help slow the spread of COVID-19.
“And if everyone does their part, we can save lives and potentially keep from overwhelming our healthcare system,” she said. “This is Amarillo’s chance to show the nation how a model city steps up to meet a very big challenge. To get the word out, we have a campaign called ‘All In Amarillo,’ and we will be communicating important information to all residents regularly.”
Generally, residents are allowed to continue to go out for supplies they need for their health and to keep their homes and businesses operating. Essential travel is allowed, and is generally defined as travel for essential personal activities and work services. These include travel to care for vulnerable people, to get educational materials, to attend funerals and to fulfill a court order.
“Everyone is still allowed to buy groceries and household supplies, go to the doctor’s office and pharmacy, get restaurant takeout and enjoy outdoor activities, while keeping six feet of distance from others,” Nelson said.
AmarilloAlerts.com also lists of types of businesses and work services that are allowed to keep operating. Generally, anything related to the health and safety of citizens, upkeep of homes and cars, education, banking and services for business continuity is allowed.
- Health-related instructions for preventing the spread of COVID-19 are still in effect:
- If you must go out of your home, ensure there is at least six feet of distance between you and others.
- Wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Use hand sanitizer as a backup when soap and warm water aren't available.
- If you have symptoms, call your healthcare provider instead of showing up at their office. This gives medical professionals an opportunity to give you the next recommended steps and set up isolation measures, if needed.
- If you have symptoms but do not have a healthcare provider, call the Amarillo Public Health Department at 806-378-6300. If the symptoms warrant a test, you will be given instructions for testing.
For more information, contact City of Amarillo Communications Manager Dave Henry at (806) 378-5219 or by email at David.Henry@amarillo.gov.
