Protect Yourself and Others
We understand this is a stressful time and people want to know what they can do now to protect themselves and their families. Below are some everyday steps that we can all take to protect ourselves and others during the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) outbreak.
The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person. Recent studies indicate that people who are infected but do not have symptoms likely also play a role in the spread of COVID-19. The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the virus.
CLICK HERE
to learn more ways to protect yourself and others.
Social Distancing
Social or physical distancing, means keeping space between yourself and other people outside of your home. Keeping space between you and others is one of the best tools we have to avoid being exposed to this virus and slowing its spread locally and across the country and world. To practice social or physical distancing:
- Stay at least 6 feet from other people
- Do not gather in small or large groups such a friend's house, parks or shops
- Consider a grocery delivery service
- CLICK HERE for more on social distancing
Cloth Face Coverings
The CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g. grocery stores and pharmacies), especially in areas of significant community based transmission. It is recommended that children 2 years and older wear a cloth face covering. Wearing a face covering in public may also be mandated depending on where you live.
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to learn more about cloth face coverings.
Washing Your Hands
Hand washing is one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself, your family and your community.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds
- Hand sanitizer: If soap and water are not readily available and hands are not visibly dirty, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
- CLICK HERE for additional key times to clean hands
Watch for Symptoms
These symptoms may appear
2-14 days after exposure
:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of Breath
- Headache
- Sore throat
- CLICK HERE for additional information and when to seek medical attention.
Stress & Coping
Fear and anxiety about a disease can be overwhelming and can cause strong emotions in adults and children.
Taking care of yourself, your friends, and your family can help you cope with stress.
- Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories
- Stay virtually connected and support your loved ones
- Take deep breaths, stretch or meditate
- CLICK HERE to learn ways to help you and your family cope better.
Caring for Children
For parents, children and teens react in part to what they see from the adults around them. When parents deal with the COVID-19 calmly and confidently, they can provide the best support for their children.
- Be a good role model
- Make hand washing a family activity
- Watch for signs of stress in your child
- Create a flexible schedule and routine for learning at home
- Discourage children and teens from gathering in other public places
- CLICK HERE for more information on caring for children
