COVID-19

March 16, 2020

Utah Coronavirus Information Line 1-800-456-7707
The Legislature has allocated over $24 million to bolster state and local efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Funding includes targeted programs to protect Utah’s seniors, who are particularly susceptible to the virus.
Funding includes:

  • $16 million to the Division of Finance for coronavirus response.

  • $4 million that can be drawn from the Disaster Recovery Restriction Account.

  • $2 million for local health departments to create intensive response programs for seniors.

  • $250,000 to Meals on Wheels, a program targeted to assist senior citizens.

  • $250,000 to the Food Box Program, which provides 10 days’ worth of boxed meals to seniors.

  • $250,000 in new home medical testing services to help minimize the spread of the illness.

  • $250,000 in home supportive services programs for vulnerable populations.

 Additionally, Utah will have access to over $6 million from the federal government.

On March 12, state leaders, Utah Coronavirus Task Force representatives and health department officials jointly announced the implementation of precautionary measures across the state to help slow the spread of novel coronavirus:

Recommendations include:

  • Avoid mass gatherings of more than 100 people.

  • If you become sick, stay home to prevent infecting vulnerable citizens.

  • If you believe you are infected, call your healthcare provider before going in so they can take precautions to protect other patients, visitors and healthcare workers.

  • If you are over 60 years of age, do not participate in gatherings of more than 20 people.

  • If you are immunocompromised, do not participate in gatherings of over 20 people.

  • Work from home, if possible.

  • Offer sick employees paid leave, if possible, to prevent infecting all employees.

  • Restrict visitor access to long-term care facilities, such as nursing homes – monitoring both employees and visitors for symptoms of COVID-19.

  • Remember that Utah’s water supply is as abundant and dependable as ever, so stockpiling water is not necessary.

The state is making these recommendations to keep Utah’s current situation from becoming critical. This is not a statewide quarantine. It is important not to give in to fear. About 80 percent of people who contract COVID-19 will only have minor symptoms similar to a typical cold or flu virus and will need little to no medical attention.

To help reduce the spread of all sickness, we can each take preventive steps, including:

  • Covering coughs or sneezes with a tissue and then throwing the tissue in the trash.

  • Proper hand washing – 30 seconds with warm soapy water – taking care to include both thumbs.

  • Social distancing – avoiding close contact with people who are sick.

  • Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

  • Supporting personal immune systems through adequate rest and good nutrition

  • Staying at home if sick.

  • Using telehealth and/or calling ahead before showing up at a doctor’s office. This will protect patients and healthcare providers, limiting potential exposures to novel coronavirus.

  • Updates and additional prevention tips can be found online at coronavirus.utah.gov – @UtahCoronavirus.

Preparations have extended to safeguarding government operations. The Legislature passed S.J.R. 16, which permits the Utah Legislature to conduct electronic meetings as needed under specific conditions. In the event of any emergency, state leaders will still be able to conduct business, address problems and serve the people of Utah. This resolution provides that any necessary meetings will meet all requirements prescribed by the Open Public Meetings Act.

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