We are living in a very strange time. During the past few months, life as we know it, has changed. It seems like it was just yesterday that we were going to the movies, going to the mall, hanging out with friends, kids attending school and making our vacation plans. And just like that everything has changed.
With the discovery of the Novel Coronavirus, everything that we enjoyed and took for granted, has been put on hold. No longer can we check out the latest movie in the theater, or check out the sales at our local mall, go to parties with our friends, kids are home from school and that great vacation will have to wait a bit longer. All due to the threat that is presented from the Novel Coronavirus, also known as COVID–19.
In the matter of just a few months, the number of cases has expanded to most of the countries around the world, and every state in the United States. COVID–19 has many of the symptoms that appear in the flu but is different. If you have been exposed to the virus you may notice symptoms anywhere from 2 to 14 days after exposure. The symptoms include fever, cough and shortness of breath. While the majority of people that are exposed to the virus will be able to fight off the virus, it can be much more serious to others.
People that are more at risk for serious problems include the elderly and people that have breathing difficulties or compromised immune systems. If this at-risk group get the virus, it will be tougher for them to fight it off and it could be fatal. Since my mom and dad are both senior citizens with health issues, this concerns me greatly!
Because of the health risks of COVID–19, state and the federal government have implemented guidelines to follow that will slow the spread of the virus. Because you may carry the virus and not have any symptoms, it is important to be careful who you are in contact with. The government have prohibited large groups from gathering for fear of spreading the virus. This means schools are closed, entertainment venues are closed, events are cancelled and people are restricted from large gatherings.
In addition, many locations have various types of stay in place orders. Businesses are closed to the public, and if you could work from home, you are told to do that. Unfortunately, many people have jobs that do not allow work from home options and have lost their jobs. Hopefully, these steps are only temporary, and we will be back to a more normal life soon.
So, what can you do to stay healthy during the time of the Novel Coronavirus? While presently we do not have any vaccine that will protect you from the virus, you can take some steps. First, it is important to wash you hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Second, is to avoid crowds. The government have banned large gatherings so that people can avoid crowds. Third, while you can go and get essential items at the store or take out food from restaurants, it is important to follow the rules of social distancing. It is recommended that if you go out to maintain at least a 6-foot distance from others. But, probably the most important way to stay healthy is to stay home. While I would love to visit my mom and dad, I don’t want to pass along any virus that I may have. Instead we have been talking on the phone, texting and using video technology to stay in contact.
While the COVID–19 virus has put a big dent in our lives, it will pass in time. The important thing is that we all need to follow the guidelines established and this will slow down the spread of the virus. To learn more about the virus, here are a few websites. Stay safe and healthy!
