San Mateo County Health Officer Dr. Scott Morrow had strong words Monday for those who have been breaking the rules of proper social distancing and sheltering in place during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“If you decide you want to do your own thing and follow your own rules, you disrespect us all,” Dr. Morrow said in a charged statement posted to the San Mateo County Health website. “You spit in our face, and you will contribute to the death toll that will follow. For those of you who say: ‘nobody tells me what to do,’ now is a time to make an exception. You can go back to being ornery in the future.”
Dr. Morrow echoed the sentiment of other health officials and community members who saw images of people locally and across the country failing to practice social distancing at parks and beaches.
“…Many people just aren’t taking this seriously and going about their business as if nothing has changed,” Dr. Morrow said. “Unless everyone does their part and follows the County’s Shelter-in-Place order and the Governor’s Safer at Home order, we will be facing an Italy-type catastrophe very soon. These orders are not recommendations, they are rules to be followed.”
The doctor implored families in different households not to mix their households at this time. He encouraged people to get outside for exercise, but within their own immediate neighborhoods.
“Do not drive except to provide or obtain an essential service,” he said. “Do not go into other neighborhoods for recreation. This increases the risk of virus spread. Always maintain social distance. Wash your hands frequently and follow all the other recommended actions.”
The doctor also recommended that community members patronize small businesses that need help, volunteer in the community, and donate.
“Now more than ever, what I need for you to do is fully follow my recommendations’ advice and orders, unite as a community, come to each other’s aid, and let kindness, compassion, and gratitude guide your actions,” Dr. Morrow said.
For his full statement, go here.
Photo: Dr. Scott Morrow, San Mateo County Health
