Friday, March 6, 2020 Pueblo, CO- Public Health officials at the Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment (PDPHE) continue to closely monitor the developments of the COVID-19 novel coronavirus outbreak and are in close and regular contact with Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

“Everyone has a role in preventing the spread of the virus,” stated Randy Evetts public health director at the Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment.

Public Health plans and exercises to respond for situations like this over the past 15 years. Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment’s plans and has resources in place to support Pueblo and are working in close coordination with Pueblo County Emergency Management, regional public health partners, hospitals, schools, and health care community.

While it is not clear how the outbreak will progress, residents and employers can begin to take steps to prepare:

  1. Do not go to the emergency room unless essential. Emergency rooms need to be able to serve those with the most critical needs. If you have symptoms like a cough, fever, or other respiratory problems, contact your regular doctor first.
  2. Stay home when sick.
  3. Practice personal hygiene habits, including handwashing, coughing into a tissue or elbow, and avoid touching eyes, nose, or mouth.
  4. Stay away from people who are ill, especially if you are 60 years old and older or have underlying health conditions such as a weakened immune system, lung disease, heart disease, diabetes, or if you are pregnant.
  5. Stay informed. Information is changing frequently. Seek information from a trusted source, such as the local health department.

“Remember to take every day preventive action such as washing hands, and if you are sick stay home,” stated Evetts. Evetts added, “During an outbreak with a new virus there is a lot of uncertainty. Our guidance and advice is subject to change as we learn more. We will continue to keep you updated.”

Two meetings for Community Leaders about COVID-19 will stream live on the Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment’s Facebook Thursday, March 12, 2020 at 8:00 am and 5:00pm for the community to watch www.facebook.com/pueblohealth.

Find more information, guidance, and up-to-date COVID-19 case counts:

For information about actions and recommendations for Pueblo County:

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