Warren County supervisors to extend COVID-19 resolution

During Monday morning’s work session, the Warren County Board of Supervisors instructed board attorney Blake Teller to draft a new resolution regarding the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The current resolution is scheduled to expire Jan. 5, 2021.

Supervisors discussed producing a public service announcement campaign to encourage the public to wear masks and social distance. All agreed that a more encouraging tone is needed as everyone has grown tired of the virus, but the need to comply with the recommendations of state and national health officials has never been greater. The current surge in new cases and hospitalizations far exceeds this summer’s surge.

Warren County Emergency Management Director John Elfer said he has conferred with officials with the Mississippi State Department of Health regarding vaccine availability and distribution. Elfer said vaccines will only be available through the health department initially due to logistical concerns such as data entry and vaccine storage. As more vaccine becomes available, pharmacies and health care providers will be brought online to provide vaccinations.

People will have to schedule an appointment in a similar manner that was used for COVID-19 testing. This will allow for tracking information and notifying those receiving the first shot that they’re due to get the second dose after 21 days.

Other issues discussed included another possible distribution of masks.