Remedios Gómez Arnau, Consul General of Mexico

In light of the emergency situation our community is going through due to the shelter in place order issued throughout the different Bay Area counties to prevent the spread of COVID-19, I’d like to tell you about the measures being carried out by the Consulate General and the importance of following to the letter the instructions of the authorities.

As everyone knows, this order was enforced on March 17 and will last until April 7. It’s a mandatory, legal order that consists mainly of staying at home. Not obeying the order will be considered a minor crime.

This order may seem alarming, but it’s a necessary step to prevent a situation that worsens every moment. The pattern of the virus—worldwide and in the state of California—indicates that this measure of distancing and social isolation, as well as restricting and avoiding crowds, is the best way to prevent it from spreading and will allow us to save lives.

Compatriots, it’s very important to act responsibly and abide by the issued orders, above all, not leaving your house except for the essentials, such as buying food, medicine or receiving medical attention. Let’s avoid crowds. We’re allowed to walk down the street, so long as we do so without companions and maintain a distance of six feet.

California’s Governor Gavin Newsom has projected that 56 percent of Californians will contract COVID-19, and that we should act responsibly and stay home.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also reiterated the call for Mexicans to avoid, as much as possible, making non-essential international trips and to follow the recommendations of the World Health Organization.

We must be especially careful with our most vulnerable populations, such as adults over 60 and people with existing medical conditions. If you feel sick, please contact your doctor, nurse or healthcare provider, do not call or go to emergency departments unless it is a true life-threatening emergency. Pharmacies and other health product stores will continue to be open and operational. Whenever possible, find a pharmacy that delivers your products and medications to your home.

Public transportation will continue to operate on a limited basis. When using public transportation, you must keep a distance of six feet (two meters) from others, including on a bus or train.

The Consulate calls on the Mexican community to respect the instructions of the health authorities, mainly to stay at home, respect social distancing and follow basic hygiene recommendations.

It is important to wash your hands with soap frequently for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing, before and after using the bathroom. It is recommended that once you have thoroughly washed your hands, turn off the water and open the door with the same drying paper. When coughing or sneezing, it is important to cover your mouth and nose with a disposable tissue and throw it away. When sneezing, use the inner corner of the arm to cover yourself, never with your hands. Then wash hands thoroughly with soap and water. Try using antibacterial gel (hand sanitizer) throughout the day if accessible, and avoid shaking hands and kissing. It is very important not to touch your face, eyes and nose,

Given these circumstances and in order to protect your health and well-being, the Consulate has proceeded to cancel appointments for consular services until April 7. We are only assisting with consular documentation, assistance and protection services that are considered verifiable emergencies, such as: medical emergencies; emergencies due to legal and immigration procedures; imminent trips with an airline ticket in hand. Other circumstances will be analyzed on a case-by-case basis.

For those compatriots who require support, the Mexican Consulate has made available to you the number for the Information and Assistance Center for Mexicans Abroad (CIAM) (520) 6237874, available 24-hours a day, seven days a week.

We will keep you informed about our services, about information issued by the authorities, about prevention measures and other recommendations through our website: /Consulmex.sre.gob.mx/sanfrancisco/. And also don’t forget to follow us on social media: Facebook: @ConsulmexSFCO 

Twitter: @ConsulmexSFO

We reiterate our commitment to the well-being, safety and health of our community and of all our clients.