February 5, 2020

Greetings,

We are hearing a lot in the news about cases of novel coronavirus around the world. As news of coronavirus continues to change daily, I want to share with you the latest information and resources about coronavirus to keep you and your congregation as up to date as possible. 

According to the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH), the health risk to the general public from 2019-nCoV remains low , both in the U.S. and in Chicago. At this point, there is no need for the general public in Chicago to change their behavior in any way related to this virus. CDPH takes new viruses very seriously, is monitoring the situation carefully, and will rapidly communicate any changes in this guidance. 

Preventing the spread of the flu is much more of a concern than the coronavirus.  Hundreds of people have been hospitalized across Illinois due to influenza and thousands have lost days to work and school because they are sick. 

Protect yourself and others from the flu by taking everyday common sense actions: 
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. 
  • Get plenty of sleep.
  • Drink fluids and eat more fruits and vegetables to build your immune system.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. 
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick. 
  • Stay home when you are sick. 
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. 
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces. 

In your congregations or religious services:  
  • Ensure that there is hand sanitizer readily available.
  • For Christians: Practice intinction versus the common cup during the eucharist or communion.
  • Invite people to greet one another with an elbow bump instead of a handshake
  • Wipe down children’s play areas or religious education spaces with warm soap and water.

Regarding the coronavirus, the CDPH does NOT recommend:  
  • The use of masks or gloves 
  • Any change in daily travel routines 
  • Social distancing 
  • Cancelling or avoiding mass gatherings 
  • Missing work, classes or other public events 

General infection control guidance is available at www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol .  
 
We have created a bulletin insert on coronavirus and flu prevention - please share this with your faith community If you have questions, please reach out to me at kirsten.peachey@advocatehealth.com . I hope you find the resources below of help, as well. 

Faithfully,
Rev. Kirsten Peachey
Director, Faith and Health Partnerships
Advocate Aurora Health


Resources:

Chicago Department of Public Health Coronavirus Guidance for Organizations .

Chicago Department of Public Health website provides updates on the coronavirus at www.chicago.gov/2019-nCov .

Chicago Department of Public Health contact information: email coronavirus@chicago.gov , or call 312-746-4835.