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Effective 5 p.m. Monday, March 23, Governor John Bel Edwards issued a Stay at Home Order directing all Louisiana residents to stay at home and limit movement outside of your home beyond essential needs. What does this mean? You can leave your house to buy groceries, food, pick up medicine, practice physical activity such as: taking a walk, riding your bike, hiking, jogging, but still maintaining a distance of at least six feet between you and others. You should not go to work unless you are providing essential services, visit family and friends if there is no urgent need, or visit loved ones in hospitals, nursing homes, and skilled nursing facilities.

COVID-19 has plagued St. John Parish with 21 active cases and over 1,388 statewide, with that number continuing to rise with testing and exposures. This global crisis is a pandemic that we must not ignore, regardless of age or health status. We hold the sole responsibility of ensuring this virus does not continue to spread, and we must flatten the curve. 
How so? Simple measures can save a life:

• Avoid contact with people who are sick.
• Keep a minimum of six feet distance from everyone.
• Cover your cough/sneeze with a tissue, throw it away, then wash your hands.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.(phones, door handles, computers, mailboxes, appliances, faucets, etc.)
• Wash your handsoften with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Stay home with the exception of essential needs.

It’s imperative to understand that majority of individuals will have only mild to moderate symptoms or none at all of COVID-19. These protective measures are put in place to protect you and everyone you come in contact with. Dial 211 if you have questions regarding the mandate or visit https://gov.louisiana.gov. All parish buildings are closed to the public until further notice. Residents are advised to emailinfo@stjohn-la.gov or call 985-652-9569 during normal business hours if they need assistance. The Council Office is also closed to the public until further notice however staff are still available to assist residents by phone or email during regular operating hours by calling 985-652-1702 or through email at council@stjohn-la.gov.

Rest assured, your government leaders are working hard to ensure continuation of government services. It’s not only our responsibility, but our oath to provide essential services to the public, and we are tasked with the responsibility of minimizing interruption of government during this difficult time. As frustrations grow, let’s remember the men and women at risk ensuring our access to healthcare, public safety, drinking water & sewerage, and all other essential services – not all heroes wear capes. This Too Shall Pass; Stay Safe & Stay Home, St. John.

Michael Wright is the Councilman at-Large, Seat B on the St. John the Baptist Parish Council. He can be reached at m.wright@stjohn-la.gov.