Managing Expectations Around COVID-19: How to Stay Safe
As of today, there are 10 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Dekalb County and a total of 121 cases in Georgia with one death from COVID-19 so far.
With the majority of Georgia’s cases in and around metro Atlanta, we understand many of our patients and community members are worried in this time of uncertainty. As a state, we have been in a state of emergency since Saturday, March 14th, 2020.
So, now that it’s been a few days of the new normal, we wanted to remind everyone of the steps you can take to keep yourself and your family safe.
1. Know If You’re In a High-Risk Category
Currently, those most at risk for major complications from this illness are the elderly with underlying conditions. What does that mean?
According to the CDC, this means that people who are over the age of 60 and have chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, lung disease, and heart disease are at the highest risk.
No matter how old you are, if you have one of these underlying conditions, or other lung related illnesses, it’s a good idea to be even more careful.
2. Take Everyday, Common Sense, Precautions
Whether you are in the higher-risk categories or not you need to be practicing social distancing. This means that you only go into public areas as absolutely necessary. While in public try to maintain at least a 6-foot radius around yourself and other people.
Avoid crowds, especially in poorly ventilated areas, such as trains or buses or other small spaces. Avoid all non-essential travel. The CDC has recommended to especially not get on a cruise ship during this time.
Wash your hands thoroughly and often especially after going anywhere in public. If hand washing isn’t an immediate option use a hand sanitizer that is at least 60% alcohol.
Avoid touching your face and while in public avoid touching high-touch surfaces with your hands. Carry tissues with you so you can use them to touch handrails, buttons, and other necessary surfaces safely.
Limit handshaking and hugging with other people right now.
How to Properly Wash Your Hands
Handwashing is, by far, one of the best ways to avoid getting sick anytime but especially during this outbreak of COVID-19.
Here’s how to properly wash your hands so that you’ll make sure to get rid of any bacteria lurking there:
- Wet your hands with clean water, it can be hot or cold, then turn off the tap and apply soap
- Lather the soap in your hands by rubbing them together being careful not to forget the backs, between all of your fingers, and under your fingernails
- Scrub your hands clean for at least 20 seconds before rinsing, about the time it would take you to sing “Happy Birthday”
- Rinse your hands with clean, running water
- Dry your hands using a clean towel or paper towel and then avoid touching anything directly until your hands are completely dry
3. Have Supplies, Medications, and Food On Hand
Depending on your situation, you might be stuck in your house for a while. Make sure you’ve gotten all of your prescriptions refilled.
Take advantage of grocery delivery services, or other family members, to pick up more supplies as needed if you’re in the higher-risk categories. Have a couple of weeks of food on hand so that you’ll not have to leave the house unnecessarily.
Remember to pick up over-the-counter medications that you typically use as well. Keep your home clean and try to stay there as much as possible.
4. Can I Still Go Outside At All?
Yes. You can absolutely still go outside in your backyard or your neighborhood. Take the dog for a walk.
You’re trying to avoid people. So, just give yourself ample space between you and others. Getting exercise and sunshine is essential not only for your physical well-being but for your mental health as well.
If possible, connect with your friends and others via video call to remain connected and not feel so lonely. Remember, we are all going through this together.
By Staying Vigilant, Keeping Updated, and Doing Our Best to Social Distance Ourselves, We Can Stop The Spread
Stopping the spread of this illness is a top priority for everyone in the world right now. Do your part by heeding the advice of the CDC and state governments to the best of your ability.
If you have questions, or you are sick and think you might have the COVID-19 virus, call our offices right away.
