The Oklahoma Eagle Newswire
Situation Update
To date, the Tulsa Health Department (THD) has confirmed 3,680 positive COVID-19 cases in Tulsa County. 2,655 residents have recovered and 70 have died. Test results are updated daily at www.tulsa-health.org/COVID19. For the most up-to-date news, information and business resources in Tulsa, visit www.cityoftulsa.org/COVID-19.
In the past few weeks, Tulsa County has seen a large increase in COVID-19 cases, especially in the younger population. The spike can largely be attributed to more people becoming lax on following CDC and THD best practices. Mask wearing, social distancing and frequent sanitation efforts remain the top way to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our area.
Additionally, the CDC has added several new symptoms for COVID-19. Symptoms now include fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting and diarrhea. Call your healthcare provider if you’re concerned about your symptoms. If you are in need of a COVID-19 test, visit the Tulsa Health Department website to see a list of by-appointment-only testing locations.
City of Tulsa Executive Order
Mayor Bynum signed an executive order today that extends the civil health emergency in the city of Tulsa. Tulsa continues to follow the State of Oklahoma’s OURS Plan, but the following items have been added to Tulsa specifically based on the updated City of Tulsa Executive Order:
- All Tulsa bars and restaurant workers are required to wear masks while working beginning immediately.
- Events planned on or after July 16 with more than 500 people or more must receive guidance from the Tulsa Health Department to evaluate safety plans for events in Tulsa. Health officials will work with event organizers on a case by case basis in making safe decisions as it relates to events in Tulsa. Event organizers can email covid19plans@tulsa-health.org. More information can be found at www.tulsa-health.org
- The City is also partnering with the Tulsa Health Department to put a Tulsa Health Department Health and Safety Consultation Program in place for businesses that would like additional health guidance for their business. Plans can be submitted for review to covid19plans@tulsa-health.org. More information can be found at www.tulsa-health.org.
July 4 Weekend Guidance
Though most organized 4th of July celebrations in Tulsa have been canceled or postponed this weekend, it’s important to continue to follow social distancing, sanitation and mask-wearing protocols. Gatherings where social distancing is hard are discouraged, and any situations where you’re in close proximity to others should warrant mask wearing.
Following what’s known as the serious seven, which is guidance in relation to places/events people are more likely to be exposed to COVID-19, will help to reduce the rate of infection in Tulsa County, especially over the July 4 weekend. Those seven places include – weddings, gyms, funerals, house gatherings, bars, faith-based activities and other small events. House gatherings are the main concern this weekend, so please be careful and think before attending a gathering with individuals outside of your household.
For those who do choose to attend a gathering, social distancing and mask wearing is the best way to limit exposure to COVID-19. It only takes one infected person to potentially infect all others at that gathering. Those who are at a higher risk for contracting and developing severe complications due to COVID-19 are those who are 65 years and older and those with underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease and lung disease. If any of these apply to you or others, it’s strongly advised you stay home.
As a reminder, the sale and use of fireworks in Tulsa city limits is prohibited. Please be mindful of your neighbors and surroundings, as veterans, pets and children are most susceptible to the negative impacts of firework blasts. If you have an emergency, don’t hesitate to call 911. For general firework complaints, call the Tulsa Police non-emergency number at (918) 596-9222. Please note Tulsa Police will only respond to complaints if the caller is willing to fill out and sign a police report.
#WearItDontShareIt Social Media Images
In an effort to promote the benefits wearing a masks provide to combat the spread of COVID-19, the City has released several #WearItDontShareIt social media graphics that encourage the use of masks in the Tulsa area. Anyone can download and use these graphics on their social media accounts. Graphics can be found under the “More Resources” section at www.cityoftulsa.org/COVID19