ESTANCIA, NM – Torrance County Emergency Manager Matt Propp announced that the County is in a Level 3 Emergency Operations Center Activation due to the identification of presumed COVID-19 cases in the State of New Mexico. There have been no cases identified in Torrance County.

“The community is encouraged to take appropriate steps for their own care,” said Emergency Manager Propp. “The public should stay informed, but should not panic,” he continued.

Steps to prevent the transmission of COVID-19 are similar to those used for preventing the flu which include:

·         Frequent hand washing and use of hand sanitizer

·         Covering Coughs

·         Avoiding contact with people who are sick

Those who feel they may have been in contact with an infected person should contact their physician.

Torrance County has a plan for contagion or pandemic and has a strong partnership with the Department of Health. Emergency Management is continuing to monitor developments and is staying up-to-date with all current information. 

In addition, Torrance County Senior Centers in Moriarty, Estancia, and Mountainair will be closed for congregate meals starting Friday, March 13th. Meals will still be available via a drive through pickup option and higher risk clients will be added to home delivered meal routes.

Torrance County will continue to update residents as new information is received.