The Coronavirus continues to spread worldwide. Health experts have been warning that the virus’s spread in the country is inevitable. That means it’s time to prepare your home and family in case your community is affected.
Most important: Do not panic. While the outbreak is a serious public health concern, the majority of those who contract the Coronavirus do not become seriously ill, and only a small percentage require intensive care.By following some basic steps, you can help reduce your risk and do your part to protect others.
Avoid Putting Your Phone Down
When you’re at a restaurant or anywhere with a shared surface, lay down a napkin and set your phone on that. It’ll save you having to disinfect your phone quite so often. (You can also use napkins to pick up shared condiment bottles if you feel comfortable with that.)
Avoid Handshakes & Hugs
Even if you feel fine personally, social distancing is a compassionate way to protect people in vulnerable demographics, like your elderly relatives and those with health complications. It isn’t always apparent when someone has a compromised immune system or other invisible underlying health concern.
Use Cards Instead Of Cash
Cash is already considered dirty — you never know what kind of germs linger on its surface. If you can pay with a debit or credit card instead of handling bills and coins, you could reduce that icky feeling that you don’t know where your money’s been.
Wash Your Hands More Often
It’s worth repeating, over and over again: wash your hands. Wet your hands with clean running water and then lather them with soap; don’t miss the backs of your hands, between your fingers or under your nails. Make sure to scrub for at least 20 seconds and dry them with a clean towel or let them air dry.
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers, which should be rubbed in for about 20 seconds, can also work, but the gel must contain at least 60 percent alcohol.
