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Town of Whitman Reminds Residents of Extension to Social Distancing Guidelines

WHITMAN — Town Administrator Frank Lynam, in conjunction with the Whitman Board of Health, would like to remind all residents that social distancing guidelines have been extended through the month of April, per federal orders.

President Trump Orders Extension of Social Distancing Guidelines Until May 1

WHITMAN — Town Administrator Frank Lynam, in conjunction with the Whitman Board of Health, would like to remind all residents that social distancing guidelines have been extended through the month of April, per federal orders.

On Sunday, March 29, President Trump called for an extension to the nationwide social distancing guidelines. All residents must continue to avoid nonessential travel, going to work, eating at bars and restaurants and gathering in groups of more than 10 through the end of April.

Health Officials Urge Residents to Stay at Home

Public health officials urgently encourage all residents to practice social distancing and remain at least six feet away from others while avoiding congregating in groups larger than 10. Regardless of your age, and no matter if you feel sick or not, it is important to follow social distancing guidelines and stay at home away from non-family contacts at this time.

Social distancing will help to minimize exposure among people, especially given that COVID-19 is highly contagious and people may be contagious prior to exhibiting symptoms. Parents should be sure to talk to their children about proper hygiene and prevention methods as well as the importance of social distancing.

Due to the evolving spread of COVID-19 in Massachusetts, Gov. Baker issued a stay-at-home advisory outlining self-isolation and social distancing protocols earlier this month. Massachusetts residents are advised to stay home during this time in order to curb the spread of this virus, with the exception of essential activities such as going grocery shopping or picking up medication.

Town officials would also like to inform residents of the critical importance of not congregating in groups outside. While residents are encouraged to get outside for fresh air, it is unsafe to have groups of people at the playgrounds or playing team and contact sports. Because of this, all recreational areas in Town are closed until further notice.  

Town parks should only be used for walking, running and biking while practicing social distancing. Organized sports or pickup games and the use of playground equipment is prohibited. All sports and recreation equipment and toys should be cleaned regularly.

Health Guidance

Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough and shortness of breath, and can appear between two and 14 days after exposure, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Anyone who experiences symptoms and believes they may have the virus is advised to contact their health care provider. For more information from the CDC for those who may have the virus, click here. 

Officials also wish to encourage residents to follow recommended preventative steps from the DPH: 

  • Practice good hand hygiene. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds including under your fingernails. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol content) can be used when soap and water are not available.
  • Keep your hands away from your face.
  • Cover your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing with a tissue and discard it immediately. Cough into the sleeve over your elbow instead of your hand. Wash your hands often when coughing and sneezing.
  • Stay away from people who are sick and stay home when you are sick.

COVID-19 Information Resources

Whitman officials encourage everyone to stay informed regarding COVID-19. The following websites are recommended for the most updated information:

Additional updates will be provided as information becomes available.

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