With all the news and worry about the Coronavirus lately I keep being asked “How can I prepare” or “What should I do?” I’d like to take a moment and address some of these questions.
It’s important that we understand some of the facts about SARS-CoV-2 and the disease it causes, Coronavirus (abbreviated “COVID-19”). Coronaviruses are actually part of a large family of viruses that are common to animals and people.
The symptoms of Coronavirus range from that of a mild cold to a severe flu. As of the date of this article Coronavirus has killed slightly over 3300 people worldwide and 11 people in the United States. Most experts are quick to point out that if you are truly worried, you should be paying more attention to the common flu. According to the CDC, so far this year the flu in the United States has infected 32 million people and killed over 18,000. So, is there something to worry about, yes. But is it also likely that this one is just getting a little more press than it deserves.
To begin . . .
Rule number 1 – Don’t panic. Even as this virus breaks the quarantines and makes its way to the streets of every town, USA, the world is not going to end. The vast majority of people who get infected live. The flu is currently worse and far more dangerous to you as an American citizen. Assuming calmer heads prevail, everything will return to normal as this virus runs its course.
CDC recommendations
The CDC, DHS and other organizations have made a number of very excellent recommendations to do TODAY, in advance of an outbreak. Let’s review a few of them.
Wash your hands
According to the American Red Cross this is the number one thing you can do to prevent disease transmission.
Get a Flu Shot
Yes, I know that this treats the flu not Coronavirus, however there is some evidence that it may help, keeping you more healthy to fight anything else that comes along.
Store a two week supply of food and water
If you don’t already have a start on a year supply, just ask yourself one question. If all the stores closed right now, could you survive two weeks? What are you missing? Don’t go out and break the bank or go into debt for this. An extra case or Top Ramen or a 20 lb bag of rice can go a long way for just a few dollars.
Keep a supply of your prescription and non-prescription drugs on hand
Include pain relievers, stomach remedies, cough and cold medicines and fluids.
Review your medical options
Make sure you know where your medical insurance cards are located and talk with your family about what you might do should something go wrong.
The worst case scenario
But what if calmer heads don’t prevail. What if the stock market continues the current decline. What if there is a run on grocery stores and supplies get hard to find. What if things do go bad?
Don’t Panic – You are prepared for this, now exercise your plan
Wash your hands – Then wash them again. And once more for good measure. A good hand sanitizer after washing is a good idea.
Stay Home if Sick – Don’t spread what you have around. If your co-worker comes to work sick. Give them a very hard time about it. If you are the boss, tell your employee to not get everyone else sick. Avoid contact with people who are sick.
Cover your mouth and nose – Don’t sneeze on everything and everywhere. Keep the germs to yourself.
Call your Doctor – If you live in a community where COVID-19 has been detected and you develop symptoms, call your doctor. Let them help you decide the best course of action.
Limit Travel – Travel only if you have to. On your return follow recommended guidelines and consider a self quarantine if you have any question at all about your exposure.
Practice Good Health Habits – Get good sleep, eat well. Drink plenty of liquids and get a little physical activity.
One last thought. Check your news sources. Twitter and Facebook are among the worst places to get information about the current situation. I suggest that you check the facts presented in this article against the latest information from the experts at the Center for Disease Control, The World Health Organization, The American Red Cross. Oh, and wash your hands!
Links Provided below:
https://www.ready.gov/pandemic