As Mayor of Forest Hills Borough, I feel it is important to provide a local resource with information and the latest updates on Coronavirus, also known as COVID-19. Since the first case of Coronavirus in Pennsylvania was reported, there have been an unprecedented number of actions taken by local, county and state government, businesses and religious organizations in an attempt to contain and prevent the spread of the virus. Since then, the World Health Organization has formally declared the Coronavirus a global pandemic. These are truly unprecedented and extraordinary times for our community.
Governor Tom Wolf has taken recent action with the Stay at Home order for Allegheny County. This decision was driven by the spike we are seeing in new cases – which is alarming. This directive is intended to mitigate the spread of this virus. I urge everyone to please take this order seriously, stay at home as much as you can and limit your travel. Your health and the health of all Forest Hills residents is important and ignoring these directives puts you, your family and friends and neighbors at risk.
Public safety and the health and well-being of our residents and Forest Hills employees is the top priority for the Forest Hills Council and the Borough Manager.
We have been coordinating and collaborating with the county and state. The Governor, County Executive and their administrations have taken proactive steps to mitigate the spread of the virus. We thank them for their leadership and support.
While officials are warning and preparing for continued spreading of the virus, there are a number of things we can do together to contain and prevent the spread. Common Sense is still our Best Defense:
Wash your hands frequently. If soap and water are not available, use alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Be mindful of contact with persons who may be suffering from a respiratory illness.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
Stay home if you are sick.
Avoid large gatherings.
We also urge you to please reserve calls to 911 for emergencies only.
Please remember to check in on your neighbors, particularly the elderly. While most in our community are in constant communication with each other and various organizations, there are many residents who don’t have as much contact with others. So please keep them in mind.
