INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Governor Eric Holcomb and Mayor Joe Hogsett have announced a coalition to flatten the COVID-19 curve across the state and invited all citizens to commit to social distancing.

The campaign is called “IN This Together,” using the hashtag #INThisTogether, and promotes social distancing and community support, saying that is the key to keeping Hoosiers healthy and returning the state to normal. Officials say when done correctly, social distancing reduces the number of hospitalizations and deaths related to the pandemic.

Partners supporting #INthistogether campaign include Eli Lilly and Company, Indiana Pacers, Indiana Fever, Indianapolis Colts, Indiana University and Purdue University

Videos and social media posts have already poured in, including from Indiana Pacers shooting guard, Victor Oladipo, former Indiana Fever star and current vice president of basketball operations Tamika Catchings and Colts linebacker Darius Leonard. In his video on Twitter, Oladipo said he wants us to do everything we can to stop the virus. He said we need to work together to slow this disease down. Mayor Hogsett agrees.

“We are fighting an invisible war and it is a war that will be won by those preventative measures that every one of us need to mindful of and obligated to implement,” said Mayor Hogsett.

You are asked to use #INThisTogether online whenever you’re social distancing, specifically doing the following things, per a joint press release from the governor and mayor’s offices:

• Stay home. Right now, staying home is the best way you can help our healthcare workers and first responders. Essential businesses are still open and everyone can go to grocery stores, the pharmacy and for medical care as needed.
• Avoid close physical contact. Remember to maintain a safe distance of six feet apart and keep up healthy hygiene practices, including washing your hands frequently, avoid touching your face, clean and sanitize frequently, and cough or sneeze into elbow.
• If you feel sick, If you have COVID-19 symptoms, call your physician and try to isolate yourself from others in the home.
• Stay connected with friends and loved ones. There are multiple ways like video conferencing, when available, that allow people to see each other on computers and smart phones. People are also encouraged to write letters and call or text people to check in and connect socially. Try to say hi to neighbors from six feet away.
• Take care of yourself. That includes your physical health and mental well-being. Staying home does not mean you can’t go for a run or walk as long as you maintain a safe physical distance. Eating well, occasionally turning off the news and a good night’s sleep are important.
• Support our community. Look for creative ways to virtually give back to your community. Call an elderly neighbor, say hi over the fence, offer virtual tutoring or donate to an organization or community fund, like the Central Indiana Economic Relief Fund.