KHSL – Getting information out about coronavirus prevention efforts can be especially challenging in small, rural counties.

Action News Now Linda Watkins-Bennett spoke with OES Deputy Director for the Modoc County Sheriff's Office and asked her how Modoc County residents have stayed informed on important coronavirus information.

Below is a Q & A of the interview.

Since Modoc County is particularly rural, you may have unique challenges when it comes to getting the word out with what’s happening about coronavirus. How's that going?

Answer: “We do, our paper is only once a week, and a lot of people that don't have access to the internet. We have gotten creative. We are trying to target our seniors since they’re self-isolating. We have put flyers with information to go into their meals that are delivered a few times a week. People are checking in on them, it’s been a great community rally.

We’re small and a really tight-knit community. So social distancing is hard for us because we know everybody and we’re that town that you wave at everybody down the street. We’ve had to adjust our lives. But it’s been nice to have that tight-knit connection, so that we can check-in on each other, and we know who needs that extra support."

Currently, Modoc County does not have any confirmed coronavirus cases, correct?

Answer: "That’s correct. We’re also in a unique situation where we border two states. So we are keeping an eye on that and we’re in communication with the surrounding counties to make sure that we’re updated on that too.

So it’s not a situation whereas a big city, it’s really difficult to maintain social distancing. But it's hard because of the distance people have to go to get information?

Answer: Yeah, and 75% of our workforce is essential. So we’re trying to do that social distancing but still maintain our essential services that we need to in our county.

Anyone with questions in Modoc County can call 233-1350 for updates on coronavirus and helpful resources.