HEALTH PRECAUTIONS

The Coronavirus is a respiratory infection that is spread three different ways: coughing, sneezing, and touching items on which the virus rests. Here are some general health precautions:

• Stay home if you have any of these symptoms: fever, sore throat, shortness of breath, runny or stuffy nose, cough, body aches, headache, chills or fatigue. The CDC suggests that you remain home at least 24 hours after being free of fever (100 degrees F) or signs of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications.

• WASH YOUR HANDS vigorously for 20-30 seconds. When handwashing is not possible, use an alcohol-based sanitizer that is 60-95% alcohol.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. Avoid handshaking and unnecessary physical touch.

• If possible, avoid people who are sick with respiratory symptoms. If not, distance yourself from them with at least 6 feet.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces (knobs, switches, and commonly touched surfaces in/around your home (handles, counters, remotes, mailbox handles, etc.) A bleach solution is best. Surfaces can hold the virus for 6-12 hours.

• Use your knuckle or elbow to touch light switches, elevator buttons, etc. Lift the gasoline dispenser with a paper towel or use a disposable glove. Open doors with your hip or a closed fist - especially public doors (e.g. post office, banks, commercial doors, etc.). Do not grasp the knob with your hand except there is no other way to open the door.

• Use disinfectant wipes at stores whenever they are available. Wipe the handles and the child seat in grocery carts, and wipe your hands before and after shopping.

• Keep a bottle of sanitizer in your car and at each entrance of your home.

• If possible, cough and sneeze into a disposable tissue (not into your clothing). Clothing can hold infectious viruses that can be passed on for over a week.

• Call your physician’s office and get essential prescriptions changed to a 90-day supply so you can limit trips to drug stores.

• Limit nonessential travel and unnecessary social interaction (shopping and entertainment areas where frequent cleaning doesn’t occur.)

• For continued health updates, visit www.cdc.gov.