Preventing novel coronavirus (COVID-19)

Sunday, March 22, 2020

 

Visit the Centers for Disease Control website for advice on how to prevent COVID-19.

NYC's Department of Health webpage

nyc.gov/coronavirus

Know How it Spreads

  • There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
  • The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.
  • The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.
  • Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
  • Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Take steps to protect yourself

  • Clean your hands often
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick
  • (voluntary) Cover your nose and mouth with a scarf, bandana or mask when you go outside
  • Practice social distancing of 6' from other people

Take steps to protect others

  • Stay home if you’re sick
  • Cover coughs and sneezes
  • Wear a facemask if you are sick
  • Clean and disinfect

Doctors are recommending that people in the high risk category (older people and people with underlying heath risks) avoid non-essential travel and mingling. Seek medical aid if you are feeling seriously ill, and inform the 911 dispatcher and your medical providers if you think you may have coronavirus. Many doctors offices are asking people who are feeling sick to come at designated times. Check with your doctor.

CDC data now shows that younger adults are a large percentage of coronavirus hospitalizations in the United States. They can stay healthy and reduce the spread of the virus by following the guidelines.

 Aerosol and Surface Stability of SARS-CoV-2 as Compared with SARS-CoV-1
Study finds that the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) remains active on surfaces for more than 3 hours. It remains longer on plastic and stainless steel (up to 72 hours) as opposed to copper and cardboard.

Sewing patterns to make your own mask: popsci.com/story/diy/make-diy-face-masks, video (Hobby Lobby) https://bit.ly/2UzfJcR

CDC Guidance

4/11/2020 Information about COVID-19 and underlying high-risk conditions https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/underlying-conditions.html.

4/11/2020 Guidance for people with disabilities https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/people-with-disabilities.html.

4/11/2020 Guidance on running essential errands https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/essential-goods-services.html.

4/11/2020 Guidance on when and how essential employees can go back to work following potential exposure to COVID-19, see Critical Worker Interim Guidance https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/critical-workers/implementing-safety-practices.html.

4/11/2020 Guidance on how to help prevent workplace exposure to COVID-19 in non-healthcare settings, view Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers to Plan and Respond to COVID-19 https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/guidance-business-response.html.

4/11/2020 Guidance for Dental offices https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/dental-settings.html.

FDA Guidance

4/11/2020 Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Food Safety Best Practices https://www.fda.gov/food/food-safety-during-emergencies/best-practices-retail-food-stores-restaurants-and-food-pick-updelivery-services-during-covid-19
https://www.fda.gov/media/136812/download.

4/11/2020 Nursing Homes, Long Term Care Facilities, Senior Centers - resources and support for older adults, people with disabilities, caregivers: NY Connects https://www1.nyc.gov/site/nycnyconnects/index.page.