Gov. Kevin Stitt: Oklahomans Are Flattening The Curve For State's Coronavirus Outbreak

Thursday, March 19th 2020, 12:17 pm

By: Robert McCarty

Governor Kevin Stitt spoke with News On 6 about the Oklahoma's current situation facing a coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak and what is being planned by state leaders.

"Right now, Oklahomans need to keep following the CDC guidelines," Stitt said. "Let's continue to innovate and think about how we are going about our daily lives."

Stitt stressed that social distancing one of the biggest keys of advice for Oklahomans in order to avoid contracting the virus. He also said to take precautions by washing your hands frequently and avoiding social gatherings of more than 10 people.

He also said that he has signed documents that will suspend the one week waiting period before unemployment benefits can be paid.

The governor mentioned that Oklahoma leaders are working with private labs and the federal government to speed the process of getting testing kits and testing done for people who experience symptoms of coronavirus.

"I've had conversations. As your governor, I'm going to be preparing for the worst," Stitt said.

Stitt said that he is impressed with the public's response to the pandemic and that the effort of Oklahomans is "flattening the curve" of the outbreak in the state.

The interview comes only days after Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum announced an executive order that limited several establishments. Bynum's order requires bars and restaurants to be closed unless they have the options of pick-up or drive-thru.

Related Story - Tulsa Mayor Orders Closure Of Most Restaurants, Bars To Avoid Coronavirus (COVID-19) Spreading

Currently, fifteen more Oklahomans have tested positive for the virus, driving up the number of confirmed cases to 44 in the state, the health department reported Thursday, March 19.

Related Story - 44 Total Positive Coronavirus (COVID-19) Cases In Oklahoma, Health Department Reports

According to John Hopkins research, there are over 240,000 confirmed cases world wide, nearly 10,000 deaths, and almost 85,000 documented recoveries.

You can find the most up-to-date information on our coronavirus links and resources page. There is also a page made for cancellations and postponements related to the virus.