Monmouth County Freeholder Director Thomas A. Arnone and Freeholder Deputy Director Susan M. Kiley have announced that as of 9 a.m. on March 19, the New Jersey Department of Health is reporting 32 positive cases of COVID-19 in Monmouth County.
News updates and information regarding county events and programs affected by the COVID-19 situation are posted at www.visitmonmouth.com, according to a press release.
“We are getting information out to you as quickly as possible while also keeping in constant communication with state, county, local and health officials,” Arnone said. “We are asking all residents to do their part to help limit the spread of COVID-19.
“Please remember the best defense against COVID-19 is to practice safe respiratory hygiene and take steps to prevent the spread of germs, including practicing social distancing, staying home when sick, washing hands and covering coughs and sneezes,” Arnone said.
As of March 14, all Monmouth County library branches and the Monmouth County Park System buildings closed to the public. County golf courses and park spaces remain open.
As of March 16, public access is restricted from all buildings with the exception of the Monmouth County Division of Social Services (MCDSS).
For MCDSS, protections have been put into place to ensure there is no physical contact between Monmouth County employees and the residents seeking services, according to the press release.
All Monmouth County employees are available to residents by phone and by email.
“I can’t emphasize enough that your mental health is just as important as your physical health,” said Kiley. “If you, or someone you know, is having difficulty dealing with this unprecedented situation, please call the crisis counselors available at the county’s health department hotline.”
Crisis counselors from the Monmouth County Division of Behavioral Health are available through phone banks to help residents who may be experiencing stress or anxiety due to the evolving situation. The counselors will provide county residents with guidance to help them through this challenging time, according to the press release.
The Monmouth County Health Department phone bank is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and may be reached at 732-845-2070.