Countless events around the world have been postponed or cancelled due to the coronavirus outbreak.
Boston Mayor Marty Walsh called into RADIO.COM's Morning MAGIC with David, Sue, & Kendra of MAGIC 106.7 to discuss what the city of Boston is doing to prevent the spread of the virus. He also offered a brief insight on the current status of the Boston Marathon, which features runners from all over the world.
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"We’re having ongoing conversations about the marathon. Met with some of the leaders of the cities and the towns that the marathon goes through. No decision has been finalized on that yet" Walsh stated. "I do know that the best thing to do is take the right steps to keep people safe."
President Trump said that the U.S. government is suspending all travel from Europe to the United States for next 30 days starting on Friday. "Obviously it’s [travel ban] going to have a big impact on the marathon. 30 days is right around the marathon and there are thousands of runners that come from Europe and overseas."
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The city is taking impressive action in a variety of areas to prevent the spread of the disease. Many colleges in the city have also sent students home and will have them finish the semester online. "Boston public schools are in constant contact with the Boston Public Health Commission and the Mass Department of Public Health so we're preparing for the potential of having to close schools." School custodians are currently ensuring schools have the necessary products and sanitation for high-touch areas.
This outbreak will also have an impact on the local economy. "Our Office of Economic Development is opening up doors and lines so we can have businesses reach out to us that are facing difficulties due to the recent cancellations. We want to hear from all of them so we can start the conversation on what we can do to help -- I think that's key."
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It's important that everyone is aware of CDC and WHO guidelines. The coronavirus known as COVID-19 can easily spread from surfaces to your hands to inside your body, so the CDC recommends everyone take precautions by avoiding touching their eyes, nose, and mouth. It's also vital to appropriately wash your hands regularly and for th recommended time as well.
Listen to the full interview with Mayor Marty Walsh below.