Mayor Robyn Tannehill and doctors at Baptist-Memorial Hospital in Oxford, Mississippi confirmed the Oxford’s first case of the coronavirus, COVID-19, via a video posted to social media this morning, Thursday, March 19, 2020.
“While today is the first time we can positively confirm the coronavirus in our community, we have known this day was coming and we have prepared for it for weeks,” explained Mayor Tannehill.
“The safety and well-being of every citizen in Lafayette County must remain our top priority,” she continued. “And we all share in the responsibility in finding ways to keep this virus from spreading, which includes social distancing.”
“My concern is that many people are still saying, ‘Oh this is no big deal.'” cautioned the Mayor. “This is a critical deal.”
Dr. Jason Waller and Dr. Jeff Dennis urged calm for the community and called for the public to continue social distancing.
“We have suspected for several days now that that we had cases in our community and now we have confirmation of the first case.” said Dr. Waller. “This is not the time for panic and chaos but for us to be calm and diligent in our practices, especially social distancing, rigorous hygiene, hand washing, and we need to get that message out into the community and we need everyone to do their part.”
“This could be the most important role you have in this community in your life,” said Dr. Dennis. “It is very important.”
“Riding in cars with other kids, going to other people’s houses is not ok.” cautioned Dr. Dennis. “It is just not.”
“This does not mean we can’t go outside,” Dr. Waller continued. “We can go outside and enjoy some of the warmer weather these days and I would encourage that just to lift everyone’s spirits.”
“We want the community to know that we will return to normal,” said Mayor Tannehill.”
For more, watch the video below.
