“At first we thought it was a type of rumor. We did a little research, not only confirmed by doctors’ offices, but the state confirmed that they also had the same information,” he said.
During a presentation to the City Council this week, Fire Chief Randy Smith also said that youth in the city are throwing parties with a fee if they get coronavirus, McKinstry said.
The first person confirmed by a doctor to have coronavirus after exposure earns money earned from ticket sales, he said. In the past few weeks, there have been several parties in and around the city, and probably more than officials don’t know, she added.
“It makes me furious,” said McKinstry. “Furious that something so serious and deadly is taken for granted. Not only is it irresponsible, but you can also catch the virus and take it home with your parents or grandparents.”
The city is working to spread the word and break such parties. She also passed a mask ordinance this week that will take effect on Monday.
“This is not political. This is a public health problem. People are dying and there is no cure. We have to do everything possible to save as many lives as possible,” said McKinstry.
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