SANTA FE – New Mexico officials say it’s OK during the coronavirus outbreak to go outdoors but the closer to home the better.
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s administration on Friday issued guidelines saying people going outdoors should practice social distancing and be cautious about potential crowding at places such as parks, trailheads and parking lots, particularly during the Easter weekend.
The governor’s office said social distancing will help stop the spread of the virus as people get fresh air and needed exercise.
In another attempt to stop the virus from spreading, Las Cruces is closing all public parks and placing barricades at entrances to discourage gatherings during the Easter weekend.
Las Cruces officials said they hope for voluntary compliance with the city’s emergency order but that police will patrol city parks during the weekend and can issue trespass citations to repeat offenders.
In New Mexico’s largest city, Albuquerque open space managers are teaming up with police and will be stationed at trailheads to ensure people are following the social-distancing rules. Parks Director Dave Simon says they need everyone’s help so they can keep the spaces open.
For most people, the virus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.
