Hard to say, but it seems logical that distancing ourselves from others might be the overall best plan until we know more. One underlying problem for certain will be long term damage to our economy. Strained relations with China may be added to the mix. But that will come after fears of getting sick are over. Right now, we need to deal with the most immediate issues. And based on hours of watching cable news channels, White house news conferences and hearing from a long list of 'experts', this is our summation as of today:
A. The COVID-19 outbreak will be more dangerous than predicted.
B. The COVID-19 outbreak will be less dangerous than predicted.
Not very encouraging, eh? Of course not. In a White house press briefing yesterday, even the top brass admitted while they are doing all they can, as this is uncharted waters and answers will come slowly.
For our own good we need to remain calm. And diligent. Here is advice from the CDC that everyone should consider:
Clean your hands often
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, 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 and rub them together until they feel dry.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with others (at least 6 feet separation).
- Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care. Learn what to do if you are sick.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow.
- Throw used tissues in the trash.
- Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, clean your hands with a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
- If you are sick: You should wear a facemask when you are around other people (e.g., sharing a room or vehicle) and before you enter a healthcare provider’s office. If you are not able to wear a facemask (for example, because it causes trouble breathing), then you should do your best to cover your coughs and sneezes, and people who are caring for you should wear a facemask if they enter your room. Learn what to do if you are sick.
- If you are NOT sick: You do not need to wear a facemask unless you are caring for someone who is sick (and they are not able to wear a facemask). Facemasks may be in short supply and they should be saved for caregivers.
- Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.
- If surfaces are dirty, clean them: Use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.
Some resources with more info:
Video of White house press briefing yesterday https://youtu.be/UVSWUDrAVHk
Latest info from the CDC https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
Bates County Memorial Hospital with local information http://www.bcmhospital.com/
As quoted by a high school superintendent about suspending classes- "In the end, it will be impossible to know if we overreacted or did too much, however, it will be QUITE apparent if we under reacted or did too little".
Fear mongering? Probably no. Using common sense until we know more? YES.
Hang in there, folks.
