From Mercer County:

Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes today issued an executive order declaring a countywide state of emergency to help coordinate the local response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak.

Executive Order 2020-01 authorizes all necessary county agencies to take appropriate action to assist municipal governments in containing, preparing for, responding to, and recovering from this COVID-19 outbreak, and it follows Gov. Phil Murphy’s direction in recommending cancellation of all scheduled public gatherings of more than 250 people, including concerts, parades and events.

“We understand that our residents are concerned about this rapidly evolving situation, and we’re determined to take whatever steps are necessary to minimize the risks for the people of Mercer County,” Mr. Hughes said, adding that the County is following all infectious disease guidelines and protocol as provided by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The executive order also allows Mercer County and its municipalities to seek federal reimbursement for extraordinary measures.

Mr. Hughes said that while issuance of the executive order is a necessary step, the CDC reports that for the majority of people, the immediate risk of being exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19 is thought to be low, and there is no cause for alarm. He urged everyone to continuing taking everyday preventive actions to keep themselves healthy.