To date, the Tulsa Health Department (THD) has confirmed 4,571 positive COVID-19 cases in Tulsa County. 3,451 residents have recovered and 72 have died. Test results are updated daily at www.tulsa-health.org/COVID19. For the most up-to-date news, information and business resources in Tulsa, visit www.cityoftulsa.org/COVID-19.
Mask Updates
Today, officials continued to stress the use of masks. Mayor Bynum also said he is working with THD on guidance as it relates to mandating masks in the city of Tulsa. Though Tulsa’s hospital capacity remains strong, the trajectory Tulsa is on in relation to COVID-19 cases will determine whether a mask mandate will be issued. Health officials continue to track trends to determine the mandate.
If a mandate is put in place, enforcement and exemptions in the mandate itself would be the biggest hurdle for implementation. The City of Tulsa and Tulsa Health Department legal teams are currently evaluating best mask mandate practices across the country so Tulsa is prepared in the event a mandate is put in place.
Health Update
During THD’s positive case contract tracing efforts, there are locations that often come up as places where clusters of COVID-19 exposure have taken place. These are weddings, funerals, faith-based activities, bars, gyms, house gatherings and other small events. Disease transmission is likely to occur in these locations because they involve larger numbers people in close contact. If you choose to be in group settings, especially at one of these seven places, it is important you wear your mask, wash your hands, and try to stay 6 feet apart wherever possible. After attending a large gathering, you should monitor yourself for symptoms for 14 days, contact your health care provider if symptoms develop and wear a mask to protect others in case you have been infected.
If you would like to be tested for COVID-19, call the Tulsa Health Department at (918) 582-9355 or visit www.tulsa-health.org/COVID19 to view other testing opportunities in Tulsa County.
It is important everyone work together to take steps to slow the spread of COVID-19. If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, you should follow the CDC recommendations to quarantine. Even if you are young and your symptoms are mild, if you don’t quarantine, you could spread COVID-19 to someone who is more vulnerable to the negative effects of the virus. Everyone needs to take the necessary precautions - wear a mask, practice social distancing and frequently wash your hands.
Executive Order
Last week, the Mayor issued an executive order mandating restaurant and bar employees to wear masks while on the job. Places like coffee shops also apply to this order. The order also mandates any events happening on or after July 16 that will have more than 500 attendees to submit a COVID-19 safety plan to the Tulsa Health Department for approval.
Business Safety Plan Submissions Update
To date, THD has talked with 15 businesses who are taking advantage of their health and safety advice as it relates to COVID-19. They have also met with downtown bar owner to discuss their safety plans going forward. So far, two event organizers have submitted their plans to THD. Event organizers needing to submit plans can email [email protected] and visit www.tusla-health.org for more information.
Unemployment Assistance Claim Processing Events
For those needing unemployment assistance help, the Oklahoma Unemployment Security Commission (OESC) will be hosting two in-person claim processing events in Tulsa on July 15 and 16. They will be held at Expo Square’s River Spirit Expo from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. For more information, visit www.oesc.ok.gov.
#WearItDontShareIt Social Media Images
In an effort to promote the benefits wearing a masks provide to combat the spread of COVID-19, the City has released several #WearItDontShareIt social media graphics that encourage the use of masks in the Tulsa area. Anyone can download and use these graphics on their social media accounts. Graphics can be found under the “More Resources” section at www.cityoftulsa.org/COVID19.
Translation Assistance
The City’s website, www.cityoftulsa.org, has a tool to help with translation assistance for any page. Website visitors can click the drop down menu on any page that says, “Select Language,” and choose from one of more than 100 different languages.
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