By SHANNON HAUGLAND
Sentinel Staff Writer
The statewide recommendation for cloth face mask coverings was reviewed by the local Unified Command last week and summed up in a joint report Friday.
The announcement from SEARHC, the city and Sitka Fire Department advised those wearing masks to be sure both face and mouth are covered, and avoid touching the front of the mask because it might be contaminated.
“Do not remove the face covering until returning home, and when removing, best practice is to grasp the ear loops, ties, or bands and immediately discard or place in a designated container for laundering,” the recommendation said. “Wash your cloth face covering frequently, ideally after each use, or at least daily.”
Volunteers have been sewing masks, and stocks are available in Sitka, the Unified Command said.
Some 900 have been distributed locally, including 80 before 2 p.m. today, said Lauren Allen, one of the local mask making group organizers. She’s a part of Southeast Alaska Mask Makers, which is active throughout the region.
In Sitka, the effort under the ad hoc group has included 15 sewers and four drivers who deliver to individuals, government offices, businesses, health care providers, charities and social service agencies.
“It’s been a great community effort,” Allen said. “It’s helping your neighbor. People have been so generous, and to see the talent in the masks, the talent of the sewers: how good they are. It’s been a great thing to be a part of.”
Allen said the effort through Southeast Alaska Mask Makers is winding down, although she knows volunteers who will keep working.
Masks are available through the organization’s Facebook page, or through Emergency Operations Center, at pio@cityofsitka.org. Those with questions can call 747-1899.
Representatives from the SouthEast Alaska Regional Health Consortium, City and Borough of Sitka, Sitka Fire Department, Sitka School District, and public health agencies continue to meet regularly to prepare and respond to the pandemic.
To date, Sitka has had no known cases of COVID-19.
The Unified Command group urged residents to adhere to all local, state and federal mandates regarding travel, staying at home as much as possible and, on the limited occasions when leaving home, to practice physical distancing of 6 feet from others.
“Continue to practice good hygiene – wash your hands often for at least 20 seconds, avoid touching your face, remain at home when sick, and clean and disinfect objects and surfaces on a regular basis.”
COVID-19 symptoms are similar to those of the flu – fever, aching, cough, and shortness of breath.
“If you are concerned you might have contracted the coronavirus, don’t panic, as the flu or another respiratory virus is still the most likely cause,” the advisory said. “Contact your health care provider for advice. If you choose to visit an emergency department, call ahead to alert staff of your coronavirus concerns and request a mask be brought out to you prior to entering to reduce the risk of exposure. For health questions or COVID concerns, please call the COVID hotline at 966-8799 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.”
Outside those hours, patients can call the SEARHC 24/7 Nurse Advice Line at 1-800-613-0560 to be triaged by a registered nurse.
