Madison Regional Health System encourages “social distancing” to prevent spread of the Coronavirus

The Madison Regional Health System is recommending people practice “social distancing” as outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (or CDC) to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 illness.  Madison Regional Health has temporarily suspended public events, support groups, and conferences in order to decrease the risk of exposure. If you are unsure of your event’s status, you are encouraged to call the facility before you go.

As far as “social distancing”, some of the recommendations provided by Madison Regional Health include:

Limit close contact with people

• Limit physical contact, including handshakes
• Avoid hugging or kissing people who are sick or showing symptoms of illness, keep your distance about six feet away
• Limit in-person meetings, using phone, email and other communication tools when possible.  
• Increase physical space when you are working or talking with others out in public

Stay home if you are sick

Stay home from work, school, church or other group gatherings if you are ill with these symptoms:

• Fever of 100° or higher
• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Sore throat

Identify actions to take if you need to postpone or cancel events

• Officials may ask you to modify, postpone or cancel large events for the safety and well-being of your event staff, participants and the community. 
• If possible, plan alternative ways for participants to enjoy the events by television, radio or online.

Avoid crowds, especially in poorly ventilated spaces

• Your risk of exposure to respiratory viruses like COVID-19 may increase in crowded, closed-in settings with little air circulation if there are sick people in the crowd.

Reduce or limit large gatherings

• Consider that now may not be the best time for parties or potlucks.

Limit non-essential travel

Madison Regional Health asks that those who utilize their facilities for their health care who feel they may have been exposed to COVID-19, or who are displaying symptoms, should call the facility at 605-256-6551.  

More information on Madison Regional Health’s recommendations can be found on our Coronavirus information page.