In my last post I wrote about the chilling reality of the 500,000 lives that have been lost to COVID-19. As of this writing, the number has climbed to 516,000. We can hope and pray that those numbers will begin to go down soon, but in addition to hoping and praying there are some steps we can take to keep ourselves healthy.
- Wear your mask every time you go outdoors. This is a basic step, but I still see some folks walking around without masks. A mask prevents you from being exposed to droplets while protecting others around you from infection. Several sites across the internet provide information on the best types of mask to buy and even how you can make a mask at home. Wear your mask over your nose and mouth and make sure it fits properly. If you have to keep pulling it up, it’s not a proper fit and you may need to get a different brand. Three types of masks are shown below: cloth face mask, anti-fog mask for glasses wearers, and a copper-infused mask
- Practice social distance. This means avoiding crowds and family gatherings as far as possible. Stay at least 6 feet (2 arms length) from people who don’t live with you.
- If someone in your home gets sick, wear your mask and take necessary precautions. Open windows and doors to allow for proper ventilation.
- Wash your hands often or use sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow.
- Disinfect surfaces that are frequently used–countertops, door handles, light switches etc. Use products from EPA’s List N: Disinfectants for Coronavirus (COVID-19)
- Monitor your health daily. Watch for symptoms like fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue. See the CDC website for other symptoms that may require emergency medical attention.
- Get the COVID-19 vaccination. States are rolling out the vaccine and giving it out according to eligibility, beginning with frontline workers followed by adults 65 years and over. If you have not had a severe reaction to the vaccine and fall into either of those categories you may get the vaccine.
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