Airport travelers asked to self-quarantine

With a surge in COVID-19 cases expected to intensify later this month, officials across the region are urging people to take steps to reduce the spread of contamination to alleviate pressures on hospitals.

The City of Redmond-owned Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM) is now encouraging all airport passengers to do a 14-day in-home self-quarantine upon arrival in Central Oregon.

“These actions are difficult, but they will help flatten the curve and lay the groundwork for a quicker recovery,” said Redmond Mayor George Endicott.

With the virus spreading more each day, this recommendation is being made regardless of the originating airport. RDM is currently experiencing a 90 percent reduction in travelers passing through the terminal, down from a daily average of 1,500.

Individuals who develop symptoms during their voluntarily self-quarantine should contact their medical provider immediately. For general questions about the virus and/or symptoms call the free COVID-19 non-emergency hotline at 541-699-5109, open from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. The hotline connects callers with caregivers and county health professionals.