COVID-19 Update from Mayor Strickland (3/29) - Memphis Coronavirus Updates

As I’ve been saying for several days now, once more widespread testing becomes available— we will see more positive cases of the virus. That’s what today’s new number of cases shows. We were at 275 cases yesterday, and today’s number has risen to 362. To date 3,715 people have been tested with 3, 352 coming back negative. We are going to see more positive cases, and I just want you to be prepared for that in the days ahead.

Earlier today, our Joint COVID-19 Task Force issued guidance on facial covering and whether or not you should wear a mask in public. Read below for more.

Facial Covering or Mask Guidance for General Public

Surgical masks are proven to reduce the transmission of infection. Masks serve two functions. First not transmitting infection to others and, second, not becoming infected with an infection. In general, masks should be used in public by those who are ill and caregivers of persons with a respiratory illness.

During a pandemic with sustained community transmission, masks should also be worn by individuals who are elderly, have multiple medical problems or have a weak immune system. At present there is no clear strong evidence for the general public to wear a mask, however, given widespread transmission of COVID-19, the general public may consider using a mask (when available) or a facial covering.

All individuals should practice hand hygiene and maintain a distance of six feet to reduce the risk of infection. Masks may serve as additional protection when combined with other preventive measures.

Since enacting the Safer at Home Executive Order, we’ve received several questions asking where to report someone who’s not following it.

All you need to do is call 311.

The Order is legally enforceable, and we will take every measure available to enforce it. This includes possibly issuing misdemeanor citations, revoking beer permits, and closures of businesses under nuisance abatement ordinances. The Directive issued by the Shelby County Health Department is also legally enforceable, and applies to all residents of Shelby County.

What can you do to help?

If you want help those affected by making a contribution, you can donate to the Mid-South COVID-19 Regional Response Fund at the Community Foundation. The fund will provide flexible funding to organizations working with community members who have been impacted by novel Coronavirus and the economic consequences of the outbreak in West Tennessee, eastern Arkansas, and northern Mississippi.

To learn more and donate online, visit cfgm.org/COVID

Shelby County Health Department COVID-19 Daily Update: March 29, 2020

COVID-19 Cases
Shelby County Cases	362
Deaths	1
Total Tested in Shelby County	3715
Tennessee Total Cases	1373* *As of 2:00 p.m. 3/28/20
Other Jurisdictions:
Tipton County, TN	11
Desoto County, MS	65
Crittenden County, AR	15
Numbers current as of 10:00 a.m. 3/29/2020

Shelby County currently has 362 confirmed COVID-19 cases. That includes one (1) death.

To date, a total of 3,715 persons have been tested for the COVID-19 virus in Shelby County. Here is a breakdown of current cases by age range:

The Health Department is committed to providing as much information as possible to the public as the COVID-19 situation continues to develop. The Health Department’s hotline number (833-943-1658).