Last week, Mayor G.T. Bynum signed an executive order that extends the civil health emergency in the city. The following conditions have been put in place:
- 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 additiona l health guidance for their business.
On July6, the Tulsa Health Department (THD) confirmed 4,104 positive COVID-19 cases in Tulsa County. 3,114 residents have recovered and 72 have died.
In the past few weeks, Tulsa County has seen a large increase in coronavirus 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 sanitation efforts remain the top way to prevent the spread, officials said.
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. If you are in need of a COVID-19 test, visit the Tulsa Health Department website.
Seven hot spots for the coronavirus are weddings, gyms, funerals, house gatherings, bars, faith-based activities and other small events, officials claim. Those who are at a higher risk for contracting and developing complications are those who are 65 years and older and those with underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease and lung disease.