County Issues Order for Residents to Stay at Home

To protect the community and prevent further spread of COVID-19, the Board of Sedgwick County Commissioners and Local Health Officer, Dr. Garold Minns, on Monday announced an order directing residents to stay at home excluding “essential businesses” and certain activities. The order will remain in effect for 30 days beginning at 12:01 a.m., Wednesday, March 25. 

Also during the Monday afternoon special meeting announcing the order, County officials confirmed a third person has been identified as presumptive-positive COVID-19 patient. 

“This order for residents to stay at home is meant to further protect residents from COVID-19,” said Dr. Minns. “If we are going to make any headway against the disease, we have to continue our community’s efforts to flatten the curve.”

 Following are examples of essential businesses and services:

• Health care
• Grocery stores
• Pharmacies
• Government services
• Infrastructure projects
• Child care
• Drive-thru/delivery/ carry-out services from restaurants
• Educational institutions (K-12 schools, colleges, and universities)
• Banks and financial institutions 

Following are examples of activities still allowed under the order including:

• Work relating to public health and public safety.
• Businesses offering “essential products and services.”
• Activities or tasks related to health and safety (i.e. doctor visits).
• Trips to obtain food and necessary supplies.
• Trips to care for and transport family members.
• Outdoor activities as long as social distancing requirements are met. 

For a complete list of all 26 essential businesses, services, and activities that will remain open and the approved order, please visit the website. You may also call (316) 660-9000 or email stayathomefaq@sedgwick.gov if you have questions related to the order.

 As the Board of Health, Commissioners are responsible for the health and safety of Sedgwick County residents. This action and previous actions have been taken to help flatten the curve and not overwhelm our local health care facilities. It is also to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in our community.