In my lifetime, our nation has never faced such an enemy as COVID-19. COVID-19 is a respiratory disease that can possibly result in serious illness or death. It is spread by close contact (within 6 feet) of infected individuals who disperse respiratory droplets by coughing or sneezing. It can also be contracted by touching surfaces or objects that have been infected and then touching one’s eyes, mouth or nose.
Essentially, we’re at war with a virus that has invaded our world and will negatively impact so many lives. As the Veterans and active service members in our community know, during a time of war crucial decisions and sacrifices must be made.
Due to the nature of how COVID-19 spreads and the health and safety of all, I’m asking each citizen to make the needed decisions and sacrifices to protect our community. I strongly suggest every citizen to do the following:
• Follow all instructions of Governor Henry McMaster, DHEC, Elected Officials, Manning City Police Department, Clarendon County Sheriff Department, First Responders and Clarendon County Emergency Management;
• Consider everyone you encounter or anything you touch could have been exposed to COVID-19;
• Stay at home except for essential errands;
• Avoid gatherings of 3 or more individuals (except immediate family members)
• Cease the operations of non-essential businesses and organizations;
• Cease in-person church services;
• Postpone wedding ceremonies (unless it’s private with 10 or less individuals);
• Follow instructions from local funeral homes by altering traditional funerals to avoid large gatherings;
• Only call 911 for Emergencies and for Non-Emergencies call 803.435.4414;
• Practice extreme cleanliness and sanitizing; and
• Check on our vulnerable citizens, neighbors and family members.
These are unprecedented and uncertain times and honestly, most may consider this time to be scary due to the threat of COVID-19. However, I know that we’re a community of prayer, faith, hope, wisdom and resilience with a spirit of cooperation. We will get through these times by what we do best, coming together to help one another and doing what’s best for all concern.
- City of Manning Mayor, Julia Nelson