These 5 mistakes could worsen the coronavirus outbreak

Every person can do their part to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus, known as SARS-CoV-2. But, in times of uncertainty, it’s easy to make mistakes.

The biggest problem is if you spread the virus to other people, especially those with compromised immune systems. “If you are infected and come into contact with other people, you put those people at risk,” said Dr. Stanley Deresinski, a clinical professor of infectious diseases at Stanford Medicine. “That’s basically what it revolves around.”

Here are five blunders that could exacerbate the current outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019, or COVID-19.

THESE 5 THINGS COULD MAKE CORONAVIRUS WORSE

Guidance on the Coronavirus

Guidance on the Coronavirus

Below are helpful tips, resources, and updated information from the CDC about the coronavirus.

Symptoms
Fever
Cough
Shortness of breath

Please note that symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure.

Prevention & Treatment
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Stay home when you are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spay or wipe.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
If soap is not readily available, use an alcohol-based sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
**The CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to prevent themselves from respiratory diseases. Facemasks should be worn by people showing symptoms, health care workers, and people taking care of someone in close proximities (i.e. home care or health care facilities).

– Stay home except to get medical care.

– Separate yourself from other people and animals in your home.

– Call ahead before visiting the doctor.

– Wear a facemask.

– Cover your coughs and sneezes.

– Clean your hands often.

– Avoid sharing personal items.

– Clean all “high-touch” surfaces daily.

**Monitor your symptoms and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.

CDC – Preventing COVID-19 Spread in Communities

Preventing COVID-19 Spread in Communities

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and 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. Always wash your hands with soap and water if your hands are visibly dirty.

Protect yourself and your community from getting and spreading respiratory illnesses like coronavirus disease 2019. Everyone has a role to play in getting ready and staying healthy.

Americans should be prepared for the possibility of a COVID-19 outbreak in their community. The community can take measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

Protect yourself and your community f

Currently a vaccine or drug is not available for COVID-19. Community-based interventions such as school dismissals, event cancellations, social distancing, and creating employee plans to work remotely can help slow the spread of COVID-19. Individuals can practice everyday prevention measures like frequent hand washing, staying home when sick, and covering coughs and sneezes.

Decisions about the implementation of community measures will be made by local and state officials, in consultation with federal officials as appropriate, and based on the scope of the outbreak and the severity of illness. Implementation will require extensive community engagement, with ongoing and transparent public health communications.

Protect yourself and your community f