Sunday afternoon, Governor Tate Reeves and State Health Officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs provided the public with the latest information on the COVID-19 outbreak in Mississippi during a Facebook live session.
During the 35-minute update, the Governor and Dr. Dobbs discussed the steps that have already been taken in Mississippi to slow the spread of the virus and what could be next. The Governor reiterated that he does not intend to issue a statewide “stay-at-home” order at this time, but such an order “may make sense in some communities” if data shows a spike in confirmed cases over a short amount of time.
Dr. Dobbs stated that such an order would give officials a chance to do additional testing in those areas.
To watch the full update, check out the video below:
The Governor also addressed the rise in unemployment claims in Mississippi due to the pandemic. Steps have been taken to increase access to unemployment benefits in recent weeks, and Governor Reeves also explained that he has signed a ‘Memorandum of Understanding’ aimed at further assisting those in need.
Both Governor Reeves and Dr. Dobbs urged everyone to continue to follow the guidelines issued by national and state health officials that encourage social distancing, proper handwashing hygiene and covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing.
An executive order signed by Governor Reeves this week mandated the suspension of dine-in services at Mississippi restaurants, limits non-essential gatherings of 10 or more people, directs businesses to allow every employee possible to work from home and instructs state residents not to visit hospitals, nursing homes, or long-term care facilities.
As of Sunday morning, Mississippi had 758 confirmed cases with 14 deaths.
