As the COVID-19 cases and fears spread in B.C. and around the world, Squamish Mayor Karen Elliott has issued a statement to the community about the novel coronavirus.
In her March 13 message posted to the District’s Facebook page, Elliott highlighted the need to share fact-based information from proper sources. the District of Squamish, like other municipalities in B.C. gets its updates about the pandemic from Health Emergency Management BC and the medical health officer, who also gives information about risk reduction measures. Recommended sources include the BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver Coastal Health, HeathLink BC and the District of Squamish.
"Don't panic. Please share only verified and trusted information with others and not the latest rumour you read online," she said.
The mayor asks members of the community to stay home if you feeling sick, and, if you're able, to help neighbours who are most at-risk by lending a hand getting necessities like groceries and prescriptions. Elliott also said it's important not to over-buy at the store.
"We can be resilient if we seek to walk through this together, so sharing and helping each other out is a big part of that," she said. "I know that selfless, helping spirit is in your DNA Squamish so this may be a time when it really needs to shine."
While there are still many unknowns surrounding the virus and what impact it may have on Squamish, it will be likely hard on local businesses, she said. Elliott asks consumers to support their neighbourhood entrepreneurs.
