03/15/2020
I am reposting this from a friend of mine, Dr Ellen Lin who is reposting from her friend. Sound advice I think.
In the midst of all the COVID-19 hype everywhere, here’s some info from a good FB friend Dr. Abdu Sharkawy's (an infectious disease specialist)
1. It's important to know what you can do to limit the spread of COVID-19 and do those things. Wash your hands for 20 seconds, don't touch your face, avoid big crowds, cover your coughs, disinfect surfaces, know the symptoms (fever, cough, shortness of breath), stay home if you're sick, sleep, eat well, stay hydrated, reduce stress, etc. This is not just for your own benefit, but to protect the more vulnerable communities (people who are older, people dealing with chronic illness, people with compromised immune systems, etc.) you come into contact with every day. On that note, ask medically vulnerable people in your life how you can help them! A small errand can go a long way.
2. Buy what you need, and be responsible about it. Don't hoard food and hand sanitizer. If you need something, try to shop local. Small businesses are being impacted in a huge way, and spending your dollars in your community will help keep them alive.
3. Don't buy face masks. I understand the anxiety that drives wanting more ways to be protected, AND masks are not particularly helpful if you are not already sick (in that case, they serve to prevent you from infecting others.) Masks are critical resources for healthcare providers, who are already struggling with supplies. As of March 10, the CDC has loosened its recommendation that front-line healthcare workers wear N95 respirators to looser-fitting surgical masks because the supply chain of respirators can't meet demand. Protect healthcare workers, so they can protect our communities!
4. Take social distancing measures where you can. According to the CDC, that means “remaining out of congregate settings, avoiding mass gatherings, and maintaining distance." Social distancing, in addition to the measures in #1, will help "flatten the curve" of the outbreak (slow the spread, so everyone doesn't get sick all at once), which in turn, helps us reduce the risk of overwhelming our healthcare system. To be able to work from home, stock up on groceries, order what you need, etc. are all privileges. Do what is possible for you—social distancing also includes putting physical space (the CDC recommends 6 feet) between you and another person whether that's in a meeting, on the train, in the grocery store, etc. Please note that social distancing is different from self-quarantine or isolation, which mean separation from others. Isolation and self-quarantine are recommended if you are sick or have been exposed.
5. Take another big breath and try not to get overwhelmed by what's going on in the news. Stress weakens your immune system and doesn't do much to help you effectively deal with what's actually happening. Get grounded in the facts: Assess your personal risks and plan around them. Limit your intake of coronavirus news if you find yourself triggered by it. Stick to reliable sources. It's okay to feel worried—do the best you can, and don't let it take over your life.
