(Comanche, Cotton, Jefferson, Stephens and Tillman counties)

With the rapid advancement of COVID-19 throughout the state, more and more businesses have been temporarily closing their doors in an effort to help slow community spread.

STILLWATER, Okla. – As the number of cases of COVID-19 continues to rise across the state, people must educate themselves about the symptoms and how to prevent the virus’ spread in their own homes, said Gina Peek, Oklahoma State University Extension housing and consumer specialist.

STILLWATER, Okla. – Scammers never seem to miss an opportunity to take advantage of natural disasters and other major life disruptions. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic is no exception, Oklahoma State University Extension Specialist Cindy Clampet said.

Watching hoarders as they empty the shelves of supermarkets, grocery stores and pharmacies as COVID 19, the coronavirus pandemic, takes its toll on daily life in our communities, it is easy to assume that a crisis brings out the worst in people. But, the fact is it can bring out the best in us, as well.

STILLWATER, Okla. – Sheep and goat producers wanting to sell their animals should check with the establishment conducting the sale to make sure coronavirus precautions have not caused disruptions in operational hours or services.

Over the last several weeks, there have been numerous developments related to the coronavirus, including an uptick in confirmed U.S. cases and unsettling swings in the stock market. As we navigate each day, it’s important to remember that we are still in the early stages of combating a mysterious virus that we didn’t even know existed until earlier this year. Despite the unknowns, we should all rest a little easier knowing that our country’s preparation has been years in the making, and – from day one – our readiness tools have been deployed swiftly and decisively well to protect American lives.

In a matter of hours, the world in which we live changed last week, and that change started right here in Oklahoma.

This week, the House spent hours on the floor this week to hear and vote on hundreds of bills. Thursday was the legislative deadline to pass bills through the chamber in which they originated.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Following new guidance issued by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), Oklahoma’s skilled nursing facilities and long-term care facilities are expected to suspend all medically unnecessary visits indefinitely while the state works to contain the COVID-19 virus. As a memo released late last week by CMS says, their new guidance “directs nursing homes to significantly restrict visitors and nonessential personnel, as well as restrict communal activities inside nursing homes. The new measures are CMS’s latest action to protect America’s seniors, who are at highest risk for complications from COVID-19. While visitor restrictions may be difficult for residents and families, it is an important temporary measure for their protection.”