Dear Members of the Communities We Proudly Serve:

People around the world, and certainly right here in our region, are feeling fear and anxiety about the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus). This is entirely understandable. The 2020 global pandemic is an unprecedented situation, both from a public health standpoint and in the steps being taken to mitigate the spread of this virus, including our statewide stay-at-home order.

Olathe Health is prepared and managing the coronavirus crisis at the current rate, while also planning for the possible influx of patients. We must all work together to keep people healthy and safe, as we move forward to better days.

I join all other healthcare providers and government leaders in the area in asking you to please:

• Thoroughly wash and sanitize your hands frequently throughout the day.
• Wipe down surfaces with disinfectant.
• Cover your cough and sneeze.
• Avoid crowds.
• Maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from other people
• Stay home.
• Eat healthy foods and stay hydrated with plenty of water.
• Get your exercise. Take a walk. Get fresh air, and clear your mind.
• Reach out to a neighbor, someone with a medical condition, or to anyone who could use a word of support. Do it by phone call, text message, email, video chat, or just a smile across the yard. Let them know they are not alone. Make their day. You might be surprised what this does for your own stress.
• If you become sick with symptoms, such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath, please isolate yourself
  and contact your healthcare provider.

Social distancing is a new way of life for all of us, but it is a known solution to confront this virus we face. Social distancing is not only for people in high-risk categories; it is everyone’s responsibility, because anyone can catch and spread this virus.

“Flattening the curve” is what social distancing is all about. Johnson County will likely continue to see the number of COVID-19 positive cases increase in the coming days. You can help prevent the kind of spike that could cause our healthcare systems in the area to be overwhelmed. With social distancing, we can slow the spread and give our medical providers the time and resources they need to treat everyone who needs care.

If you have questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to call your provider, or the Olathe Health COVID-19 Nurse Hotline at 913-782-2224, or toll free 877-544-2224. Or, go to olathehealth.org for more information.

Thank you to all of our dedicated first responders and healthcare providers in the area for their service to the residents of our region during these most challenging circumstances. Also, we are so grateful to all the organizations and individuals who have donated food, supplies and sent cards and letters of support.

With patience, empathy and vigilance, we will get through this together.

Stan Holm, President/CEO