The first case of Coronavirus in the United States was confirmed on 25th February 2020. Since then, the situation has rapidly evolved as the number of coronavirus cases has climbed. Furthermore, cities and states are taking various measures to stop the spread of the virus by asking everyone to stay at home and engage in social distancing.
What is social distancing?
Social distancing is a policy that many state and local officials are now asking their residents to follow. In a bid to slow down the spread of coronavirus it is extremely important that we find ways to stop people from physically transmitting the infection to one another. The best way to do that is to encourage everyone to stay at home.
What does social distancing involve?
- With the exception of family members who live in the same household, minimize contact with everyone else.
- Restaurants, bars, clubs, malls etc. should be avoided.
- For those who need the leave the house for groceries, medical supplies or to get some fresh air, in these situations, when interacting with others, maintain at least 6 feet distance between you and everyone else.
- If you need some fresh air, take walks outside or go for a run. These are still acceptable. But maintain 6 feet of distance between you and those around you (who are not in your family unit).
- Work from home. Most companies are now encouraging and supporting this.
- For young children, this means no play-dates and no daycare. Children should also be at home.
Social distancing is difficult. Human beings are social creatures and in times of stress, it is our family members, friends and loved ones that we look to for comfort. However, coronavirus is easily transmitted from person to person. So in the interests of keeping everyone safe, practice social distancing. Stay connected to loved ones online and via phone.
Social distancing works. In other countries, it has been shown to stop or slow down the spread of corona virus. But it’s up to everyone to do their part.
I’m young and healthy. Do I still need to practice social distancing?
Yes. Coronavirus appears to be affecting the elderly at a disproportionate rate. But, this does not mean that young people should continue on with life as usual. Young people may not be severely affected by the virus but they can still be carriers of the virus.
As a carrier (who may or may not be showing symptoms), you still have the ability to spread the virus to elderly and immunosuppressed people that you come into contact with. These individuals who are less able to fight the virus may ultimately get sick and succumb to the illness. All adults –both young and old should practice good hygiene and social distancing.
What should I do if I suspect I have coronavirus?
As of 12th March, the latest guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) states that if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms (cough, fever or runny nose) begin the 14-day quarantine at home immediately. Do not wait for a positive test to start quarantine measures.
We strongly ask that patients who suspect they have coronavirus, DO NOT go to any medical or healthcare centers without calling beforehand. Calling beforehand will allow staff to properly assess you in a safe and appropriate setting before arrival. Alternatively, they may provide further guidance on next steps to take.
At this time, different state and county health officials have different guidance for suspected cases of coronavirus. We advise everyone that thinks they might be infected to do the following:
- Call your local urgent care center or doctor’s office for advice.
- Speak to a medical doctor via a telehealth service (if your health insurance covers this).
- Visit your state or county healthcare website for details about quarantines and testing.
How is coronavirus diagnosed and where can I get tested?
Each state is conducting testing for coronavirus in different ways. You are urged to visit your state or county healthcare website for the most up to date details.
Remember, the testing capabilities of each state are changing on a day to day basis. So keep checking their website for updates.
I have tested positive for coronavirus. What should I do next?
If you have received a positive test for coronavirus, the CDC recommends the following:
- Stay at home.
- Stay away from others: As much as possible, you should stay in a specific “sick room” and away from other people in your home. Use a separate bathroom, if available.
- Limit contact with pets & animals.
- If you are sick: You should wear a facemask when you are around other people
- Wash hands: Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Do not share personal items or household items: Do not share dishes, drinking glasses, eating utensils, towels, or bedding with other people in your home.
- Isolation should last at least 14 days. The decision to stop home isolation should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider first.
Lastly, monitor your symptoms often. Call 911 if you have a medical emergency such as difficulty breathing. If you need to call 911, notify the operator that you have or think you might have, COVID-19. If possible, put on a facemask before medical help arrives.
I have recently returned from abroad. Should I get tested?
Many citizens have suddenly found themselves back in the United States after countries have shut borders or asked their citizens to return home. It is advisable to self-quarantine at home for 14 days.
Coronavirus has now spread to most countries around the world. In the interests of being safe, self-quarantine for returning travelers is recommended. If you’re able to get tested, do so. But quarantine is the first step to take.
Are children infected by coronavirus?
As we learn more about coronavirus, data from around the world shows that young children appear to have a level of immunity against the illness. However, children may still be able to spread the virus.
There is a possibility that children may still transmit the virus to others by touching items, coughing, sneezing, wiping their nose etc. Parents are asked to pay extra attention to hand washing and hygiene practices with kids, where possible.
Read more: Coronavirus (COVID-19) Disease or Infection- What Is It?
References
https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public
https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/q-a-coronaviruses
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/steps-when-sick.html
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/prevention-treatment.html
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/summary.html
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