Brown to Self-Isolate After Exposure to Individual with COVID-19

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Mayor Jamael Tito Brown will self-isolate after being exposed to an individual who tested positive for coronavirus.

In a news release and memo to city staff Friday afternoon, Brown said he was informed by the Trumbull County Board of Health about the possible exposure, which took place when he was out to dinner more than week ago.

The health department notification, he said, confirmed his concerns about bars and restaurants, where people do not wear masks. 

Brown said he has advocated the use of masks for months and worn a mask constantly, as well as practiced social distancing. He has conducted “hundreds of meetings” via video conferencing programs such as Zoom, Skype and GoToMeeting. 

“I have not been shaking hands and have ordered all city staff members to wear masks on duty when not working alone. I know the drill. I preach the drill. I live the drill,” he continued. 

Though he is not showing any symptoms, out of “an abundance of caution,” the mayor said he would quarantine at home for the remaining isolation period. That includes not attending the public events this weekend in celebration of Juneteenth, the commemoration of the end of slavery in the United States. 

The mayor did not specify where the potential exposure or how long he would self-isolate. 

“I say all of this to send a clear message – coronavirus is real,” Brown said in the release. “It is still among us. It is still deadly. We need to be cautious with every action we take until this virus can be eradicated.”

He further urged the public to wear masks, wash hands and practice social distancing if attending event this weekend, and say home when possible.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.