The health and safety of all Marylanders is a priority of the Office of the Attorney General, so I want to make you aware of the steps that are being taken across the state, in order that each of us can minimize the risk of contracting and/or spreading the virus. As you have been hearing, Maryland, like the rest of the country, is taking steps to address and prevent the spread of the Coronavirus – COVID-19. The more we do right now to reduce and prevent transmission of the virus, the better off we will be in the long term.
Here is a summary of what has happened to date:
* The Governor has declared a state of emergency, and the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) has fully operationalized to mobilize all state resources.
* Beginning on Monday, March 16, all schools in Maryland will close for 2 weeks, through March 27.
* All non-essential state employees are under a mandatory telework policy.
* Access to House and Senate office buildings and Legislative Services will be restricted to credentialed personnel only.
* All convenings, gatherings and events that may include 250 or more people are cancelled or postponed.
* Activity Centers for Seniors will be closed.
* The Port of Baltimore cruise ship terminal will be closed in the coming days.
* The National Guard has been activated to respond should the need arise.
We encourage all residents to remain calm and take preventative steps to protect yourself and your families. Preventative steps that are always recommended to slow the spread of respiratory illnesses like colds and flu include:
* Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds,
* Using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol if soap and water are not available,
* Covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue, your sleeve, or your elbow,
* Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces using standard cleaning practices,
* Avoid touching your face,
* Avoid close contact with people who are sick,
* Stay home if you are sick, except when seeking medical care,
* If you do experience any symptoms such as fever over 100.4 degrees, coughing, or shortness of breath, please contact your primary care physician or call 211 for assistance.
Here are some additional tips to help minimize your risk.
Here is a complete list of actions the State will be taking to protect public health and safety.
While the virus will cause some disruption to legislators’ normal schedules, the General Assembly will remain in session to finish critical bills and fulfill our Constitutional duties. State agencies will also continue to develop comprehensive and coordinated prevention and response plans for the coronavirus.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please check Maryland Department of Health websites and follow their Twitter and Facebook pages for real-time updates:
Maryland Department of Health COVID-19 Resources
Maryland Department of Health COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions
COVID-19 Information for Older Adults
As this very unusual situation continues to evolve, we will continue to take the appropriate steps to protect the well-being of all our residents and provide updates.
Please take care,
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