Phoenix, other Valley cities closing playground equipment at parks due to coronavirus

Phoenix closing playground equipment at parks due to coronavirus

PHOENIX - The city of Phoenix has closed playground equipment at parks in the state’s most populous city to help restrict the spread of the coronavirus.

The closure, which was announced late Monday, took effect at 5 p.m. Tuesday, at the same time a statewide stay-at-home order issued Monday by Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey took effect.

State officials on Monday also announced that Arizona schools will remain closed for the rest of the school year.

Phoenix officials said the closure order for playground equipment also includes fitness equipment and basketball and volley’ball courts in parks but that parks, including green spaces and walking areas, remain open.

Other Valley cities, such as Peoria, have announced similar measures.

The Arizona Department of Health Services added four new virus deaths to their count on Tuesday, bringing the total to 24. The state has now tallied 1,289 cases across all 15 counties. The entire state is under Ducey’s order to close bars and movie theaters and restaurants to all but takeout service.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.

In order to protect yourself from a possible infection, the CDC recommends:

Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Stay home when you are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

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https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus

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https://www.azdhs.gov/coronavirus

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