With COVID-19 at the top of everyone’s mind, the Pasco Sheriff’s Office wants to ensure citizens have resources with up-to-date information, as well as some ways citizens can protect themselves and others. We want to again remind citizens of the below information and ask that you share it with your friends, family, and neighbors. Please be advised, as this information changes frequently, please visit the Pasco Sheriff’s Office Facebook page for the most up to date information:
For the latest information about COVID-19, please visit the U.S. Center for Disease Control’s website at CDC.gov. If you suspect you have contracted COVID-19, call your doctor before visiting an office or testing site. They will provide you with details on testing information and will help mitigate your risk of spreading the virus.
Even if you do not have symptoms of COVID-19, others may still be at risk. Practicing social distancing by staying at least six feet away from others is a good way to lower the risk of spreading or contracting COVID-19. Washing your hands frequently with soap and water or using hand sanitizer consisting of at least 60% alcohol, as well as disinfecting surfaces frequently, are also great ways to reduce the risk to yourself and others.
Unfortunately, there are some criminals who will try to take advantage of those seeking information about COVID-19. Cybercriminals are using citizen concerns to prey on vulnerable citizens by launching phishing attacks or producing false ads. The best way to combat against these scams and get the most accurate information on the coronavirus is to visit credible websites, such as the U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC.gov) and the World Health Organization. These sites will never request an email address to access information.
Scammers are also attempting to access citizen’s information through phone calls. As always, be aware of unsolicited phone calls and emails offering unprompted information for your private information in return. If you are unfamiliar with the source, don’t click on any links or attachments sent through emails. Additionally, be cautious when clicking on social media ads. Scammers create ads with false information on coronavirus cures and conspiracies.
Additionally, the Pasco Sheriff’s Charities is now accepting monetary donations for two of Pasco County’s most at-risk populations: children and the elderly. While schools are closed, students that rely on free or reduced meals may be left without an alternate source of food. Many seniors in our community also need the assistance of others for meals and medical expenses. We’re doing our part to help our community members. If you’d like to help, visit PascoSheriffCharities.org/donation.
Together, we will get through this pandemic by listening to accurate information, safeguarding ourselves from those looking to take advantage of others and helping out the greater community. Thank you for your continued support of the Sheriff’s Office during this time!