Oklahoma Begins Phase 3 Reopening

As of today, June 1, Oklahoma has moved to Phase 3 of the reopening process. Gov. Kevin Stitt stated, "We are making responsible decisions based on the data in our state."

Oklahoma remains one of the lowest states in the nation for COVID-19 infections. Data from the Oklahoma State Dept. of Health (OSDH) show 6,573 active cases out of nearly 4 million residents and over 5,300 people have recovered from the virus. Sequoyah County has had 15 positive cases and 3 deaths.

Under Phase 3 businesses may resume normal staffing. Summer camps are allowed to open and businesses that had been operating by appointment only may now begin accepting walk-in clients at their discretion. Hospitals, at their discretion, may begin to allow limited visitations. Long-term care facilities and nursing home visits will remain suspended except for end-of-life situations.

Gov. Stitt reminded residents that each business owner can choose to adopt or not adopt the suggested Phase 3 Guidelines depending on their situation and that it is at the discretion of each individual owner.

Stitt continues to urge social distancing, frequent hand washing and good cleaning and disinfecting practices and is also encouraging individuals to minimize time spent in crowded environments. The governor also added that those 65 and older who are considered a vulnerable population should continue to follow safer-at-home guidelines.

OSDH Interim Commissioner of  Health, Lance Frye stated, "As we enter Phase 3 of reopening, the health department will continue to be focused on minimizing the presence of COVID-19. Frye reminded Oklahomans that they do not need to be experiencing symptoms to get tested at local county facilities.

Frank McCoy, KXMX Staff Writer

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