April 6, 2020

19,600 individuals across the nation are reported as recovered from COVID-19. Statewide confirmed cases have increased to 1,132. Union County remains at a total of three confirmed cases. There are no new cases reported in Wallowa County which remains at one confirmed case. The Wallowa County case is not located in Wallowa County but is a resident of the County. Total completed tests in Oregon is 21,801 of which 20,669 are negative.

Over the last few days, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has begun recommending individuals wear a mask when in public. A mask provides a physical barrier to prevent droplets from landing on others and discourages the wearer from touching their face. Social distancing, frequent hand washing, and avoiding others when sick continue to be the best means of protection against the coronavirus. It is important to note that the wearing of a fabric mask is not a replacement for social distancing. https://www.cdc.gov/…/prevent…/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html

La Grande School District will have weekly packets available for pick-up tomorrow from 7:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. However, to assist families to “Stay Home, Stay Healthy”, all information is available online. The information can be accessed at https://lagrandesd.org/ under the Distance Learning section.

In preparation for a potential surge of hospitalized patients due to COVID-19, an alternate care facility was identified as a secondary site in La Grande at the Grande Ronde Hospital Pavilion. At the recent request of the County, the Oregon National Guard delivered cots, bedding, and personal care items for this site. Wednesday, April 8, the County will be receiving three trailers to include a mobile kitchen and refrigerated trailer for food storage to be utilized at this secondary site. The kitchen and refrigerated unit are on loan from the Oregon Department of Corrections, Snake River Correctional Institute. Oregon Department of Forestry will be providing vehicles and drivers to transport the units from Ontario to La Grande.