Keeping Key West’s Markets Safe and Healthy
The Key West Artisan Market and Truman Waterfront Farmers Markets are keeping a close watch on the latest information regarding the coronavirus. In a press release issued this morning, the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County did not advocate cancelling or postponing events but rather “strongly urging attendees of mass gatherings (places where 1000 people or more are present at one time) not to attend” if they meet specific criteria including those over the age of 65 with underlying health conditions, those who are immune compromised and people who have been exposed or are sick. According to the FDH, currently there are no documented cases of COVID-19 in Monroe County.
The Market’s emphasis is on protecting the public health by preventing the spread of infection is paramount. The virus is thought to be spread through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes and can be killed using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe. Stringent cleaning and disinfecting procedures around the market and food safety protocols can help decrease opportunities for viral transmission. According to the CDC, currently there is no evidence to support transmission of COVID-19 associated with food. Before preparing or eating food it is important to always wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds for general food safety. It should be noted both markets are held outdoors in fresh air and the number of guests onsite are well under the FDH definition of ‘mass gathering’.
The Key West Artisan Market is held Sundays, 10 am to 2 pm at Higgs Beach. Participants must live and create in the keys and many rely on this show for their livelihood. They will appreciate the community’s continued support as we together navigate this difficult time. However we insist customers who are experiencing symptoms such as fever or dry cough, and customers with possible exposure, to please stay home to take care of yourself and protect others.
For more information about the markets visit https://www.facebook.com/
For health information contact Florida Department of Health in Monroe County PHONE: 305/293-7500 or visit www.Monroe.FLHealth.gov
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