BOISE, Idaho — Ada County Commissioners today called for all non-essential work travel by Ada County personnel to be suspended. The advised work travel restriction applies to all Ada County employees, and will remain in effect through May 2020.
The move comes in response to growing numbers of confirmed COVID-19 cases in nearby states, and advice from public health officials who say reducing transmission risk by reducing unnecessary travel is a key component to slowing the spread of infectious disease. At this time, there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Idaho.
“Our primary concern is ensuring that our communities, and our staff are healthy and safe,” said Ada County Commissioner Kendra Kenyon. “Based on recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and our community partners at Central District Health, we believe this is one of many prudent and measured actions we can take to reduce our risk as a community.”
In addition to the travel restrictions for Ada County employees, the Board of Ada County Commissioners confirms that all events have been canceled at EXPO Idaho through April 30, 2020. Parks & Waterways will take no new bookings for the Barber Park Education and Event Center between now and May 31. Public health officials have indicated that mass gathering are considered to be the highest risk venues for widespread transmission of any respiratory illness.
Additionally, Ada County Operations began enhanced cleaning protocols last week that include expanding the areas and locations in Ada County facilities that are wiped down with hospital grade cleaning chemicals. Operations personnel have received additional cleaning training to ensure that highly trafficked areas and surfaces are sterilized appropriately.
Ada County Emergency Management and Community Resilience along with the Ada County External Communications team continue working collaboratively with public health officials and community partners in both Ada and Canyon County. Planning with Central District Health, Southwest District Health, local hospitals, cities within both counties, school districts, and other agencies continue in an effort to provide the public with consistent and reliable information. These efforts will continue as a priority.
Anyone with questions related to COVID-19 to call the Central District Health Call Center at (208) 321-2222 which is available for calls Monday – Friday from 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM.
