Caribbean L 24 ife, Feb. 28-Mar. 5, 2020
Preparation tips
for pandemic
What is coronavirus disease 2019
(COVID-19)? Coronavirus disease 2019
(COVID-19) is a respiratory illness that
can spread from person to person. The
virus that causes COVID-19 is a novel
coronavirus that was first identified
during an investigation into an outbreak
in Wuhan, China.
What are the symptoms of COVID-
19?Patients with COVID-19 have had
mild to severe respiratory illness with
symptoms of• fever• cough• shortness
of breath
f you are sick, to keep from spreading
respiratory illness to others, you
should• 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 objectsand surfaces.
Although there is no immediate
threat of contracting the coronavirus
disease in the U.S. and all of the
cases are contained, the Department
of Homeland Security’s website offers
several specific ways that people can
prepare for a pandemic and what to do
during one.
These proactive measures include:
Stocking a two-week supply of
water and food.
Ensuring you have a continuous
supply of regularly needed prescription
drugs.
Stocking up on nonprescription
drugs and other health supplies. This
includes pain relievers, cough and cold
medicines and vitamins.
Locating and storing copies of personal
health records from doctors, hospitals,
pharmacies and other sources for
personal reference.
Having a plan with family members
and other loved ones on how they
will receive care if they get sick or what
will be needed to care for them in your
home.
During a pandemic, health officials
urge practicing good hygiene to limit
the spread of germs and prevent infection.
This can be done by:
Avoiding close contact with people
who are sick
When sick, keep your distance
from others to keep germs from spreading.
Covering your mouth and nose
with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
Avoiding touching your eyes, nose
or mouth to prevent infection.
Getting plenty of sleep, being
physically active, managing your stress,
drinking plenty of fluids and eating
nutritious food.
Wash your hands often with soap and
water for at least 20 seconds. Use an
alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains
at least 60% alcohol if soap and
water are not
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