Hilltoppers,

We have all been closely watching the Health Department’s tracking of COVID-19 in our communities. On March 14th, the first positive test occurred in Mesa County and in the 25 days since, the numbers have risen to 31 in Mesa County, 34 in Montrose County, and 5 in Delta County.

Yesterday, the first member of our Hilltop team tested positive for COVID-19. The great news is this individual is feeling well after experiencing only a single day of fever.  In addition, the supervisor was quickly notified of the symptoms, the employee did not come to work and self-isolated immediately, minimizing the risk. Great job by all involved!

In short, our protocols worked as planned.  In reviewing our strategies with Mesa County Public Health, we were told our plans are solid and to continue our current processes. We will stay in communication with the County and our protocols may change as new information becomes available. Right now the plan consists of three primary tracks:

  • If you are sick with non-COVID-19 symptoms, do not come to work and remain at home until you are symptom free for 72 hours without the use of medications.
  • If you are sick with COVID-19 symptoms, do not come to work and enter an “isolation protocol” lasting for at least 10 days from the initial onset of symptoms and be symptom free for 72 hours without the use of medications.
  • If you suspect exposure (without PPE) to an anyone with active symptoms of COVID-19 (living in the same household, direct contact with fluids, or being within 6 feet for at least 10 minutes), do not come to work and enter a “quarantine protocol” lasting up to 14 days (or a negative test result).

Over the past weeks, we have had several team members receive testing due to symptoms; fortunately before yesterday, their test results all came back negative.  Now, with a Hilltopper testing positive, we need to continue to hold the course. As the numbers increase in our community, it is more critical than ever to continue handwashing with soap, use anti-bacterial gel, and social distance – including staying home when you are not at work and using face masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19.  Eliminating any possible risk is not possible; however, minimizing the risk should be the primary focus of everyone.  Let’s all do our part.

Together, we’ve got this,

Mike