Asbury Park Update On Coronavirus Outbreak

ASBURY PARK – The city says it has been working diligently with state and county health officials to stay updated on the current coronavirus disease outbreak.

The city says it is taking the necessary steps to prepare in the event that a broader outbreak occurs. All efforts are being made to ensure continuity plans are in place so that city services, including Police, Fire and EMS, remain uninterrupted should an outbreak occur in Asbury Park.

“Residents should be assured that we are doing everything we can in preparation of an outbreak of Coronavirus in our community,” said Mayor John Moor, “including making every effort to guarantee our Police, Fire and EMS have the resources they need to ensure everyone’s safety.”

“For our residents who may be unable to obtain government-issued ID cards, we are expediting an Ordinance to create an Identification Card Program,” said Deputy Mayor Amy Quinn, “Having identification will allow them access to various Social Service programs such as housing programs and health care. We want to make sure everyone in Asbury Park is prepared and have allowed for a provision to waive the fee for those that can’t afford it.”

State and Federal Officials are prompting members of the public to develop contingency plans for work, school, and home in the event that an outbreak occurs in our community. Families, educators, and employers should begin to prepare for the possibility of an interruption to everyday life.

The City of Asbury Park currently has no confirmed cases. Our steps are proactive—we feel it is important to take them now to help ensure our community’s well-being. Based on the Governor’s recommendation, we are asking people to use judgment and to limit public gatherings when possible.

The City has taken the following safety precautions in preparation for an outbreak of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19):

The City of Asbury Park has been sharing information from the Centers for Disease Control frequently on social media with information on disease prevention and best practices

The Department of Social Services has been distributing Coronavirus education flyers throughout the City at locations such as the Transportation Center, the Rescue Mission, the Women’s Hospitality Network, senior buildings, boarding homes and to the Housing Authority.

Asbury Park Fire Department (EMS) is following operating guidelines developed with information from the CDC, Monmouth County Health Department, the Monmouth County Communications Center, and APFD EMS Medical Director Dr. Steven Vetrano concerning any medical responses that fit the possible symptoms of Coronavirus

APFD (EMS) has recently purchased an AeroClave ambulance disinfection system which will be installed shortly

The Asbury Park Police Department continues to follow recommended guidelines, has protocols in place for incidents involving Coronavirus and is prepared with appropriate safety equipment .

The Department of Public Works has done major disinfections of the Transportation Center, Senior Center, Library and City Hall—and will continue to disinfect all City of Asbury Park public facilitates and Asbury Park bus stops on a daily basis

The Asbury Park Senior Center is staying open but all outside events and trips have been canceled to keep our most vulnerable population safe

The Asbury Park Transportation Center has been closed. NJTransit service remains unaffected and tickets can be purchased at outdoor kiosks or on the train.

Read more: NJ Coronavirus Updates: Here's What You Need To Know

New Jersey Coronavirus Updates: Don't miss local and statewide announcements about novel coronavirus precautions. Sign up for Patch alerts and daily newsletters.

Here's what else you should know:

• State health officials said they believe the virus is "community-spread" in New Jersey. "Community-spread indicates that the coronavirus is amongst us," Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli announced. Read more: Coronavirus May Be 'Community-Spread' In NJ
• Murphy has declared a state of emergency, which allows his administration to expand its powers to treat the illness. Read more: NJ Gov. Murphy Declares State Of Emergency Because Of Coronavirus
• The first person in New Jersey to die of the coronavirus was reported on Tuesday, March 10. Read more: First NJ Coronavirus Death, 4 New Cases: Governor
• New Jersey's courts suspended all new jury trials until further notice, Chief Justice Stuart Rabner said on Thursday, March 12. Read more: Coronavirus Throws Monkey Wrench Into New Jersey Court System
• The NJ Motor Vehicle Commission also extended expiration dates for driver licenses, registrations and inspection stickers. Read more: NJ Driver's License Changes Because Of Coronavirus Outbreak
• PSE&G is giving financially struggling customers a break in "the interest of protecting public health." Read more: PSEG Stops Gas, Electric Shut-Offs As NJ Copes With Coronavirus

How It Spreads

The virus that causes COVID-19 is spreading from person-to-person. Someone who is actively sick with COVID-19 can spread the illness to others. That is why CDC recommends that these patients be isolated either in the hospital or at home (depending on how sick they are) until they are better and no longer pose a risk of infecting others.

There is currently no vaccine for COVID-19.

While the best way to prevent illness is to avoid virus exposure, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention always recommends taking preventive actions to contain the spread of viruses. This includes:

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipes.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.