As the number of COVID-19 cases has increased exponentially in Oklahoma over the last weeks, many things have become part of our new routine.
For many that routine means venturing outside less or even losing their job due to the downturn in the economy.
Here in Oklahoma we’ve seen almost daily briefs from Governor Kevin Stitt and various state health leaders.
As members of the media, we also receive daily updates from our local health officials. For us at The Madill Record and countless other outlets, these updates have provided invaluable information that we’ve forwarded on to you the public.
At this point, we’re all aware that there are massive shortages of COVID-19 testing kits, personal protective equipment (PPE) for the healthcare professionals that are on the frontline of the outbreak and a similarly dangerous shortage of ventilators.
While we’re glad to have received information from our public officials, we believe there is one component that is lacking: a mandated shelterin-place order from Governor Stitt.
Such orders can curb the spread of the disease and keep people safe as the worst is yet to come.
The virus’ peak in Oklahoma is set for April 23 according to the COVID Tracking Project at https://covid19. healthdata.org/projections. Its projections show a high of 42 deaths on that peak day with other days having death totals in the double digits.
We’re not the first to ask this of the governor. A collection of medical groups made a similar plea on March 23.
We’re not fans of staying home and we want to see America get back to work. However, our safety comes first.
Stitt’s office did not respond to multiple requests for comment. Mr. Governor, what say you?