The COVID-19 virus… Ways to protect yourself
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This map shows the cases reported of the COVID-19 virus from the Johns Hopkins center. It’s a global map that is updated by the minute. It reports the number of confirmed cases, total deaths worldwide and the number of total recovered cases. The total of recovered cases out number the total of deaths by thousands. (Courtesy map from the Johns Hopkins website)
By Teresa Bigham/The Hesperian-Beacon—
FLOYD COUNTY – Older adults and people who have severe chronic medical conditions, like heart or lung disease seem to be at a higher rick for developing more serious complications from the COVID-19 virus.
Educated yourself about this virus is the best thing that you can do. Learn how this virus spreads.
There is currently no vaccine to prevent the coronavirus currently. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention center, the best way to prevent the illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.
According to the John Hopkins Center, this virus is thought to spread mainly from person to person. Between people who are in close contact with one another and through coughs and sneezes from an infected person.
Take steps to protect yourself.
- Wash your hands often with warm soapy water for at least 20 seconds, especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your noise, coughing or sneezing.
- If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Take steps to protect others.
- Stay home if you’re sick or not feeling well, except to get medical care.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or use the inside of your elbow when you cough.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, including doorknobs, light switches, countertops, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets and sinks.
To disinfect, the most common EPA-registered household disinfectants will work. Options include:
- Diluting your household bleach to make a blech solution mix:
To make a bleach solution, mix
5 tablespoons (1/3 cup) bleach per gallon of water or
4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water.
This bleach solution is from the Centers for Disease. They suggest making sure you have proper ventilation and reminds that bleach should never be mixed with ammonia.
Watch for symptoms: Reported illnesses have ranged from mild symptoms to serve illness. The following symptoms may appear 2 – 14 days after exposure.
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
If you develop emergency warning signs of COVID-19 get medical attention immediately.
The Center of Disease Control reminds us that knowledge is the key and there is no reason to panic or over stock on items.
