The Spahr Center would like to give our clients an update on the novel Coronavirus, now known as COVID-19. This situation is evolving rapidly and we understand it may be causing concern.

As of this morning, one resident of Marin has been diagnosed with Covid-19 following recent travel. One other patient with the Covid-19 is currently isolated at a hospital in Marin County, county officials announced recently.

This patient was not infected in Marin. Health experts agree that the measures taken so far have helped to limit spread of the virus, but they are nevertheless predicting that there will be further community spread of COVID-19 in the United States. 

People aged 60 and over, and people living with HIV who are not virally suppressed, are at higher risk of acquiring Covid-19. The Spahr Center feels it can best meet its mission to assure the well-being of LGBTQ+ people and people living with HIV, as well as do its part to help stop Covid-19 early, by taking the following immediate steps:

1.    Until further notice, we are cancelling all group meetings for HIV clients and seniors on an in-person basis. However, participants are encouraged to check in by telephone by calling our conference call line at their regular meeting time: 605.313.4100, passcode 346591. A Zoom account is being set up in order to hold video conferencing in the near future. 

2.   Until further notice, we encourage clients to come in to our office only if their visit requires signing or exchanging essential documents. We will be conducting as many other appointments as possible by telephone. 

3.   The Pantry remains open on its regularly scheduled days: Wednesday through Thursday.

4.   THE SPAHR CENTER WILL MAKE ANY NECESSARY ARRANGEMENTS TO PROVIDE OUR REGULAR SERVICES TO ANY CLIENT WHO DECIDES IT IS BEST FOR THEM TO STAY HOME DURING THIS PERIOD, TO INCLUDE PANTRY DELIVERIES. IF YOU NEED ANY SERVICES, please call us at 415.457.2487 

The Marin County Office of Education in partnership with the Marin County Department of Public Health and Kaiser Permanente will be holding a community meeting tonight, March 9, at 6 pm. Folks are encouraged to attend virtually via Facebook live. Click here to join.
Here are some good strategies for reducing your risk of becoming infected with any respiratory virus, including COVID-19:

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available.
• People who are sick should always cover their coughs and sneezes using a tissue or the crook of their elbow; wash your hands after using a tissue to wipe your nose or mouth.
• People who feel sick should stay home from work or school until they are well.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with your unwashed hands.
• Maintain good social distancing – six feet from others – when you can.
• Avoid shaking hands and hugging. Elbow and hip bumps are encouraged.

The Spahr Center continues to be in touch with the Marin County Health & Human Services Agency, which is also working closely with regional, state and federal agencies to respond to this situation. We will continue our monitoring, and advise our clients and supporters of any changes in the status of COVID-19 as we are advised of them.
Please feel free to direct any questions to Leslie Gallen at 415.886.8553