ENTERPRISE — Wallowa Memorial Hospital collaborated with the Wallowa County commissioners and the Wallowa County sheriff this week to produce and post an 8-minute video summarizing the state of COVID-19 preparations in the county.

The video features hospital nursing and emergency preparation coordinator Stacey Karvoski, Commission chairman John Hillock and Sheriff Steve Rogers.

In the video, Karvoski notes Wallowa Memorial began preparation and planning for COVID-19 in February, and the local incident command team meets twice daily for updates on coronavirus developments statewide as well as nationally and globally. They have a plan for meeting demands on care that may be imposed if there is a surge in COVID-19 cases and have an adequate supply of personal protective equipment.

To date, the hospital has administered 18 COVID-19 tests, with 15 negative results. The remaining three have not been returned. The hospital is screening all visitors for temperature and self-reported illness.

Hillock said helpful information about financial support for businesses during the COVID-19 financial storm is available on the websites of Oregon U.S. Rep. Greg Walden, and Oregon U.s. Sens. Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley. Hillock urged small businesses to contact the Wallowa County Chamber of Commerce for more opportunities for aid.

Hillock recognized Senior Meals on Wheels and Community Connection for delivering food and company to homebound adults, as well as the schools for delivering breakfast and lunches to students. He noted this week, supplies that Karvoski requested will arrive at the hospital, like other rural counties in Eastern Oregon. (He noted off camera the county will receive one N51 mask, one gown and a few other items.) Hillock also said he expects the National Guard will deliver additional medical supplies from federal stockpiles next week.

Rogers said the department is doing criminal fingerprints only and is not processing applications of renewals for concealed handgun permits. The sheriff’s office also will not take action until June on criminal cases involving concealed carry.

He emphasized law enforcement in the county is assisting in keeping the hospital and clinics safe and officers are available and happy to do welfare checks on relatives and loved ones.