Dental and medical offices, and pharmacies, still open
On March 30, 2020 as a result of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic the Sonoran government ordered that all non-essential businesses in the state must close.
In addition to restaurants and bars, it will idle at least 30 maquiladora production facilities that employ 10,000 workers.
The closure does not affect essential businesses like dentists and doctors offices, and pharmacies.
Factories that manufacture critical items like medical devices and supplies will remain open.
Other closures and coronavirus measures
The declaration follows a state of emergency issued by Nogales, Arizona one week earlier, on March 22. And it precedes a stay-at-home order by Arizona Governor Doug Ducey that goes into effect at 5:00 p.m. today.
The statewide stay-at-home order that takes effect this afternoon does not include going shopping and doing other essential tasks.
And in addition to medical offices, Governor Ducey has even included hair styling salons and golf courses in those essential businesses that will remain open in Arizona.
Coronavirus in Arizona and Sonora
Currently, there have been 1289 cases of coronavirus diagnosed in Arizona and 24 deaths.
There are three coronavirus cases and no deaths in Santa Cruz County, on the border with Sonora.
Sonora has far fewer cases, due to lower levels of testing. Currently in Sonora, Mexico there are 17 confirmed cases of COVID-19 with 32 suspected cases and no deaths registered due to the virus.
Nogales border still open for Americans
The closure order does not affect border crossings for Americans.
And as mentioned, it also does not affect medical and dental clinics and pharmacies in Nogales, Mexico. Read more.
Arizona medical and dental services limited
The nationwide shortages of critical medical supplies like masks and respirators has led to a decrease in elective surgeries and dental procedures, so that medical and dental offices can donate their supplies to hospitals on the front line of fighting the pandemic.
Arizona has been no exception, and many Arizona dental clinics are currently closed.
Nogales dentists still open for business
Due to the shortage of available dental services in Arizona, those people who need urgent dental work can still rely on professional dental services in Nogales, Mexico.
The Nogales border dental clinic Dental Advanced has published a statement and photos to show how they are ready to protect patients and their staff from exposure to the virus.
Be aware that the situation will change
As the pandemic worsens in the Arizona-Sonora region, the border situation will change. at this stage in the pandemic.
Stay current with the news to make sure border trips are still allowed.
Remember to check with dentists like Nogales Dental Advanced to see if they are currently open and if they have appointments available.
And, remember to use precautions to prevent the spread of the virus, including not leaving home if you feel sick or have the virus; wash your hands frequently; do not touch your face; and remember to maintain at least six feet of space between yourself and others.
Be safe, be healthy.
