As the COVID-19 Coronavirus continues to cause worldwide concern, the CDC wants everyone to be prepared.
They provided a guideline on steps to take before, during and after a Coronavirus outbreak. Its goal is to help household members have a plan in case the virus hits their community.
Before a COVID-19 outbreak
The best thing to do is plan, says the CDC. This includes planning to care for those who are of greater risk such as older adults who have chronic health conditions. They urge community members to talk with neighbors about emergency planning. They think it’s also important to create an emergency contact list including family members, neighbors, doctors and community resources.
The CDC stresses the importance of maintaining good hygiene and practicing preventive actions such as washing hands, staying home when sick, avoiding close contact with sick persons and frequently cleaning surfaces. Be prepared for potential changes in the workplace and/or child’s school facility as they plan for an emergency closing or temporary dismissal.
During a COVID-19 outbreak
Stay at home from work, school and all other activities as long as symptoms persist, says the CDC, and limit close contact with others. They encourage people to stay informed about the local situation, continue preventive measures and to use a separate room from others in the household.
Notifying workplaces and schools of sickness is important as well. The guideline suggests to discourage children and teenagers from gathering in public spaces during school closures to prevent the spread of the virus in the community.
After a COVID-19 outbreak
A coronavirus outbreak impacts individuals, households and communities. The CDC says it’s important to evaluate the effectiveness of any household planning, continue to practice everyday preventive measures and help children understand and cope with the situation.
The Montgomery County website has also put out information about the Coronavirus regarding overall prevention, preparedness and symptoms among other topics.
There are now more than 100,000 confirmed cases of Coronavirus worldwide, according to the Johns Hopkins dashboard, which tracks number of Coronavirus cases, location, deaths and recoveries for affected countries.
Are you ready in the event of an outbreak of #COVID19 in your community? CDC encourages you to create a household plan that can help protect your health and the health of those you care about. https://t.co/isBYfXNv5A. pic.twitter.com/NHc9CzmIhn
— CDC (@CDCgov) March 5, 2020
