HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – Officials from the 66th Medical Squadron encourage the base community to remain vigilant in the battle against COVID-19.
Handwashing, face coverings and social distancing remain the best lines of defense in preventing the spread of the virus.
“We have to reemphasize that we are still in a pandemic,” said Tech. Sgt. Joshua Andersen, 66 MDS noncommissioned officer in charge of Public Health and Preventative Medicine Flight chief. “COVID fatigue may be setting in, but it’s important that we stay on top of our efforts so we can keep our community safe.”
The reminder comes in the same week Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker announced increased measures across the state that will take effect Nov. 6.
The most recent state order will limit indoor gatherings to a maximum of 10 people and outdoor gatherings to 25, and facial coverings will be mandatory regardless of physical distance. Governor Baker also signed an updated order related to face-coverings requiring people to wear face-coverings in all public places, even where they are able to maintain six feet of distance from others.
Base leaders are currently reviewing installation policy to determine if updates or changes are required. At this time, no changes have been made.
Officials will release additional guidance prior to the holiday season.
“We’re going to take every step to ensure our community stays safe and healthy as we transition into a new season,” said Col. Katrina Stephens, installation commander. “Our community has done a tremendous job so far; we just have to stay focused.”
Andersen recommends frequent sanitization of “high-traffic” items, such as doorknobs, handles, cell phones, and computer keyboards and mice.
“Even if you’re the only one using an item, such as a keyboard, the other items you touch throughout the day are accumulating there,” he explained.
Officials are continuing to monitor the numbers and will release additional guidance as it’s developed.
All additional information will be updated at www.Hanscom.af.mil/Coronavirus.