Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a highly contagious respiratory illness. Find out how to prevent the spread of this virus.
Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a highly contagious respiratory illness. Additionally, the virus that causes COVID-19 is a novel coronavirus that spreads from person to person, typically within about 6 feet. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), individuals aged 60 and over, as well as those with compromised immune systems, are the most vulnerable.
This past week, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a pandemic, signifying a global outbreak. In response, government officials have urged the public to practice social distancing and remain at home to curb the spread of the virus. The United States, along with other countries worldwide, is working diligently to contain the virus in hopes of mitigating its spread and eventual decline.
- Coronavirus – coronaviruses cause colds and other upper respiratory infections. The coronavirus that causes COVID-19 is a new strain of the coronavirus.
- Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) – this is the official name of the disease that was caused by the new coronavirus.
According to the CDC, the symptoms below may start anywhere between 2-14 days after exposure.
- New Strain of the virus – some people infected with the virus don’t experience symptoms. Those who do experience symptoms can experience a low-grade fever, body aches, cough, or shortness of breath.
- COVID-19 – the symptoms of the disease can include severe cough, high fever, shortness of breath, which can indicate pneumonia.
If you have any of the symptoms above, you should contact your doctor to find out if you should be tested for COVID-19.
Wash Hands Frequently – If you need to go out to the store or the mailbox, make sure you wash your hands. When you get the mail or a package delivered, you should wash your hands right away. Properly washing your hands is essential.
- Wet your hands with clean water and apply the soap.
- Lather the soap on your hands by rubbing them together.
- Wash your hands for 20 seconds or more. Make sure you clean under your nails as well.
- Then rinse your hands under running water.
Practice Social Distancing – The reason we are being asked to social distance is that we are trying to starve the virus. If you do come in contact with someone, keep at least 6 feet between you. Stay home as much as possible. Stay around your immediate family as long as they are also practicing social distancing. Keep away from any senior family members or those with a compromised immune system if you’re going to the store or are around other people.
Don’t Touch Your Eyes, Ears, Nose, or Mouth – One of the common ways you can catch a virus (COVID-19) is by touching your face. If you go out into the public (grocery store, mailbox), wash your hands immediately.
Respiratory Hygiene – Respiratory hygiene is a big part of infection prevention. If you’re sick and you’re not sure whether you have the virus, you need to be very careful. One of the ways the virus is spread is by coughing and sneezing. The droplets released from a sneeze or cough can travel for several feet infecting others. The droplets can land on railings, tables, and other objects and can live for several hours and possibly longer. Try to sneeze into a tissue or cough into your sleeve. If you’re sick, stay home.
Social distancing is essential right now to prevent Covid-19 spread, and staying home may be difficult. We are used to going to work and socializing. It’s a good opportunity to spend time with family and catch up on things you have meant to do. Here are a couple of ways you can keep yourself and your children occupied.
- Catch up on movies – this is a good time to stream a movie you’ve meant to watch. You can have a movie night with popcorn etc.
- Read a book – you probably have a few books you’ve meant to read but haven’t had the time. You can also read a book together as a family.
- Game night – start a game night with your kids.
- Start a hobby – if there is a hobby you have been interested in starting but didn’t have the time now is an excellent time to start. You can order things online.
- Exercise – you can stream exercise classes to stay active.
If you’re sick or you feel like you may be coming down with something, stay home. The important thing is that we all stay healthy and safe. Try to keep calm.
We are all in this together.
Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC)
World Health Organization
Health Department
We know these are incredibly daunting times, given how quickly the coronavirus has gone on to become a pandemic. Our firm reminds you to stay calm and take the necessary preventive measures. If the need to engage with one of our staff arises, we do offer text sign-ups for new clients and a portal for existing clients.
