Today, March 16, 2020, there are 121 cases of COVID-19 in Georgia. As COVID-19 continues its spread, we are already starting to see the large impact it will have on our community and small businesses. Our community has already been affected by COVID-19. Local businesses are reporting a decline in business due to people’s concerns about the virus. And while most people will have mild symptoms and recover, COVID-19 can cause severe symptoms, especially in older people.

As we experience this COVID-19 crisis, keep in mind some of the events in our March issue may be canceled or postponed, but during these difficult times we encourage you to keep connecting with your community as best you can.

As businesses start being affected by COVID-19, we’d like to help get out information about what changes local businesses have done to help prevent the spread. This could be things people wouldn’t notice such as, cleaning frequency, a change in sick leave for employees, etc. Feel free to post on our Facebook page or email cynthia@eastcobber.com.

These are unprecedented and unpredictable times, but we’re here for you. We understand the important role EAST COBBER plays in staying connected to our readers and customers through email and social media. EAST COBBER staffers are working remotely and still ready, willing and able to continue our focus on producing the next issue of the EAST COBBER magazine.
And regardless of your feelings on COVID-19, the Department of Health encourages everyone to take preventative measures, like:

  • Washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
  •  Covering any coughs or sneezes with your elbow, do not use your hands!
  • Cleaning surfaces frequently, such as countertops, light switches, cell phones and other frequently touched areas.
  • Containment: if you are sick, stay home until you are feeling better.

Here are some trustworthy and helpful COVID-19 resources for you:

The CDC has a list of frequently asked questions and answers, symptoms, what to do if you’re sick, what to do if you’re traveling, how to talk to your child about coronavirus, recommended precautions and preventing spread. The Georgia Department of Public Health has more information and a daily update about the coronavirus, as well as the number of confirmed cases.

We do not know how long this situation will persist, nor what the damage will be when all is said and done. What we do know is that we must take care of each other. We must listen to the experts, follow the best advice they can offer, and be prudent in our decisions. In closing, support the establishments you love, take care of your neighbors, and of course, wash your hands.