Proper precautions can help keep us all safe

I want to thank the Sandpoint Reader and the Bonner County Daily Bee for their excellent coverage of COVID-19 in our area.

Governor Brad Little announced on Thursday, June 11, the state narrowly met criteria to enter the final stage of the Idaho Rebounds plan to safely and responsibly open the economy in stages, highlighting the importance of individuals strengthening their personal actions to slow the spread of COVID-19 in Idaho.

“Our economic rebound cannot occur without sufficient healthcare capacity, a healthy population, and consumer and employee confidence. The most effective way to achieve a strong rebound and keep Idaho open is for all of us to step up our personal actions to protect ourselves, our families and our neighbors and preserve the sacrifices we all made to get us here,” Governor Little said.

Community transmission has occurred in Kootenai, Bonner, and Benewah counties, according to Panhandle Health. We’ve seen our first death (in Kootenai County). As we all watch to see what will happen, I urge everyone to take four basic precautions:

• Social distance

• Wash hands often

• Wear a mask

• Frequent restaurants, supermarkets, drug stores and other businesses who follow these guidelines and also wipe down surfaces.

We have done a great job in protecting our community so far. Let’s keep it up!

The best way for me to protect myself is to protect against community spread. As a bonus, I will continue to see my family, friends and neighbors healthy and happy.

NANCY GERTH

Sagle