Jason Shelton Holds Corona Virus Press Conference

Tupelo- Mayor Jason Shelton held a press conference this afternoon, in response to the recent spread of the Corona virus. He said that the Virus has not reached our area, but the city of Tupelo is being proactive and “over-prepared.”

Shelton said that he will be signing two executive orders today. The first order states that all Tupelo hotels are to suspend their morning breakfast buffets, and resort to a table service if at all possible. Shelton also said that the city of Tupelo is open for business, and all area restaurants will be open.

The second order states that all youth-league sports are to be suspended or cancelled until April 1^st. Shelton urged parents not to blame the coaches, referees, or the Park and Recreation department. He said that this was his decision.

The mayor has asked that all Tupelo schools be closed Monday and Tuesday of next week, so that the city will have time to make sure that anyone who might have been infected during spring break can be identified. Shelton said that he does not have the authority to close to schools, and the school board will meet tomorrow to make a decision.

Shelton also urged people that are sick to stay home to prevent possible exposure to the virus. He said that if you are sick, please do not go in to the emergency room or the doctor’s office, but rather to make an appointment.