The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services and the CDC are responding to an outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a novel (new) coronavirus that was first detected in many locations internationally, including in the United States. The virus has been named “SARS-CoV-2” and the disease it causes has been named “coronavirus disease 2019” (abbreviated “COVID-19”).
Building on Missouri’s efforts to control, contain, and combat COVID-19, Governor Mike Parson issued a statewide “Stay Home Missouri” Order effective beginning at 12:01 a.m. on Monday, April 6, 2020, until 11:59 p.m. on Friday, April 24, 2020. The Order explicitly states that individuals currently residing within the state of Missouri shall avoid leaving their homes or places of residence unless necessary. For more information about the Governor’s order, please click here: https://governor.mo.gov/press-releases/archive/governor-parson-issues-statewide-stay-home-missouri-order-control-contain
Amid concerns about COVID-19, many of us are likely worried and overwhelmed with trying to keep ourselves and our families safe. During this time, news outlets and health organizations strongly encourage social distancing for our wellbeing. A significant amount of social distancing can lead to extreme isolation, which can be especially harmful to individuals who are struggling with developmental disabilities, mental/behavioral health concerns and substance use disorders.
Keep these resources available should you have any questions or need assistance during these challenging times.
24-hour hotline: 877-435-8411 (staffed 24 hours/day, 7 days/week)
For information and resources on the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services website: https://health.mo.gov/living/healthcondiseases/communicable/novel-coronavirus/
For information and resources on the Missouri Department of Mental Health website:
https://dmh.mo.gov/disaster-services/covid-19-information
CDC – Daily Life & Coping
Learn how you can plan, prepare and cope with stress: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/index.html