Burr Ridge Mayor Provides Updates on Coronavirus Measures, Testing Center

Press release from the Burr Ridge Police Department:

Sunday March 29th, 2020 : 06:00 p.m. CDT

IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM MAYOR GRASSO ON COVID-19 / CORONAVIRUS

As we start another week of Stay-At-Home, we must recommit to obeying the Governor’s Order while taking solace and confidence in the fact that Illinois may well reap the benefits of an aggressive program to keep us separated – and thus, as safe as possible. Social distancing is the new norm – for real good reasons. I wish to commend the efforts of another Burr Ridge business – CycleBar – who has taken it upon themselves to rent and deliver their studio bikes to residents’ homes so that residents may continue to receive CycleBar’s services without the need to leave their homes. I encourage all residents to pick up a new hobby or return to one left aside as we work to flatten the curve.

COVID-19 testing is increasing. We know the verified case numbers will go up significantly because of an ever improving ability to test and quicker turn-around rates for results. Abbott Labs has received FDA approval for its rapid COVID-19 test that may be able to detect a positive result in just 5 minutes. Increases in the number of positive test results helps to provide better and more widespread identification of those who must self-quarantine or receive needed care. Testing may lead to an avenue toward care – but it is also crucial to better identify those who must stay home and not venture out – and keep all of us better protected from the spread of the virus. More testing protects all of us. We must assume there are persons with COVID-19 in the Village whom we have not been told about, or who themselves do not know because they have mild symptoms, or have not been or do not qualify to be tested. That is why we must continue to strictly obey the SAH Order, keep 6-foot or greater social distancing and wash hands thoroughly and regularly.

For those who test positive, please know and be comforted in the fact that Burr Ridge has many volunteers who will pick up groceries, or medicines, or run errands for those testing positive. If you are symptomatic (e.g. fever, cough) contact your doctor. If you do not have a doctor, try our House Call doctors. Our House Call Doctors – for those without doctors – who may be able to do a wellness check are: Dr. Farah Fakouri, MD (630-706-0230), Dr. Katy Schmelka, MD (312-835- 9973), Dr. Taaha Shakir, MD (917-686-5676), and Dr. Yaser Wafai (773-991-0000), MD.

Remember, we also have the testing tent provided by Metro Infectious Disease Consultants on McClintock Drive – but you must be screened and qualify before you can go there. To be screened, call (630) 655-8032 or (630) 654-4201. Please join me in thanking our House Call doctors and the MIDC group of health professionals for helping to keep Burr Ridge "A Very Special Place."

Go to www.burr-ridge.gov to find a list of our restaurants and counter service food establishments that are providing take-out meals. Place your orders and help them get through this crisis.

“Remember that the best relationship is one in which your love for each other exceeds your need for each other” – Dalai Lama

STAY VIGILANT, STAY RESOLVED, STAY SAFE & CALM –
AND STAY HOME

This press release was produced by the Burr Ridge Police Department. The views expressed here are the author’s own.