TALLAHASSEE, Fla., March 28, 2020–The Florida surgeon general issued a statewide health alert via cell phone today to people over 65 or with health conditions.

The message:  Stay home.

According to a public health advisory issued Wednesday, all individuals over the age of 65 and all individuals of any age with high-risk conditions should remain in their residence and take all measures to limit the risk of exposure to COVID-19.

These measures include, but are not limited to:

• Limiting contact with all persons outside of the home and distancing any unavoidable contact by a minimum of 6 feet
• Washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or using hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol
• Avoiding unnecessary touching of eyes, nose and mouth and washing hands prior to doing so
• Cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces, including entryway door handles

Additionally, the alert advised people to cease participation in social or recreational gatherings of more than 10 people.