Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards says due to coronavirus people over age 60 really should limit contact with people.
"The first age at which we start seeing more serious complications related to exposure is the age 60," Edwards said.
The governor told people over 60 they should take action now and stay away from people.
"If you are an older citizen... you really need to be limiting your interaction."
Edwards says this is based on science.
"We are following CDC guidelines."
The impacts and death rates climb as patients ages increase over 60.
People with underlying other health problems are also at higher risk at younger ages.
Edwards stressed, however, that at no time has his proclamation suggested not going to church services.
"I am a person of faith... I also believe is science."
Many churches have implemented measures to keep parishioners away from one another in church.
The governor said the steps advised to slow spread are very important as Louisiana sees a faster spread than most states.
"If you look at the number of cases per capita, we are number three or number four in the country."
Edwards noted that if all people follow the advised steps, it will help save lives. The more people who avoid interaction, the fewer cases there will be overall and the fewer people will die.
"Every single person in our state has a role to play."
Even young, healthy people who get mild or no symptoms can aid in the spread and increase the death rate just by gathering with others and helping spread the virus.
"It is time to be good neighbors," Edwards stressed.
The governor outlined the following recommendations for all people:
- Washing your hands for at least 20 seconds and frequently
- Covering your cough or sneeze with your arm
- Avoiding touching your face
- Routinely clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces
- Avoiding close contact with others
- And staying home if you are sick
#StayConnectedTogether Note: The governor did not reccomend individuals over 60 self quarenteen at this time as previously repoted, rather "really need to be limiting your interaction."
