City of West Linn Closely Monitoring Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

WEST LINN, OR – March 11, 2020 - The City of West Linn continues to closely follow guidance from Clackamas County Public Health, the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), and the CDC to protect the public health during the current coronavirus pandemic.
This weekend, the OHA issued guidance and best practices to schools, colleges, and universities. At this time, the guidance recommends against closing schools and campuses where no cases of COVID-19 are present. The recommendation gives schools tools to prevent COVID-19 transmission and maintain a normal learning environment for students and staff. Read the full recommendation here.

The City of West Linn is taking precautionary measures at all City facilities and continues to make further preparedness plans to ensure the safety of the community and our staff are paramount as Oregon cases of the virus continue to rise. We are doing our best to help slow the community spread of the virus as recommended by public health officials. More guidance is expected in the coming days that will be updated on our website and in future City communications.

How can you support those at high risk?

Centers for Disease Control has reported that older adults may be at a higher risk for serious illness from COVID-19. We understand the importance of protecting our parents, grandparents, and other vulnerable populations. Here are steps the CDC recommends to help your loved ones:

• Know what medications they're taking and help them have extra on hand.
• Monitor food and other medical supplies needed and create a back-up plan.
• Stock up on non-perishable food items to minimize trips to stores.
• If you care for a loved one living in a care facility, monitor the situation and know their protocol if there is an outbreak.

How can you stay well?

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with sick people or animals.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw it away. If you don’t have a tissue, cough into your elbow.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces
• Stay home if you are sick and call your health care provider before going in to help limit exposure to others.
• Older adults and those at increased risk of severe illness due to chronic health conditions should take additional precautions to protect themselves and consider social distancing strategies such as avoiding gatherings or other situations of potential exposure.

Trustworthy sources of information:
Clackamas County
Oregon Health Authority
Centers for Disease Control
West Linn-Wilsonville School District COVID Info Page