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One of the most popular stories around the world today is the Coronavirus, or COVID-19, that has caused more than 4,000 deaths worldwide.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) there were 938 (confirmed and presumptive positive) cases in the United States as of this Tuesday. In the US there have been 29 deaths from COVID-19. There are currently no cased reported in Wyoming.
As with any outbreak such as COVID-19 or seasonal flu, there are those who are at a higher risk for developing serious illness from coming in contact with the virus. Those would include people of all ages that have severe underlying health conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, diabetes or immunity disorders.
Pregnant women and children are also considered at high risk for the worst of the virus along with the elderly.
At this time the public has made buying things like toilet paper, hand sanitizer and over the counter cold and cough medicines nearly impossible, hoarding the items because of fear.
In fact, people are being asked not to buy face masks at this time as it could create a shortage for those who actually need them, medical professionals.
In speaking with Hot Springs Public Health manager Tricia McPhie, she urged people not to buy the masks, more so because they aren’t going to help anyway. McPhie said the virus is airborne, however they will not prevent the virus particles from getting to you.
Public Health suggests stocking up on things that are actually going to be necessary if you end up quarantined with COVID-19, which could last for a prolonged period of time.
If you are taking any prescription medications it would be a good idea to check with your physician to see if you can obtain more to tide you over in case of a quarantine or an actual case of the virus.
Be sure you have plenty of household items on hand such as groceries to ensure you’re prepared to be at home for a period of time.
When it comes to everyday kinds of precautions, washing your hands cannot be emphasized enough. Washing your hands in warm water, with soap, for at least 20 seconds, especially after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing, or having been in a public place is your best defense.
If you’re unsure about how long you should be washing your hands, a simple trick will help. Simply sing “Happy Birthday” twice as you’re doing it and you’ve fulfilled the 20 second requirement.
If soap and water are not available hand sanitizers may be used but they should contain at least 60% alcohol to be effective.
As much as possible, avoid touching things in public places such as door handles, handrails and shaking hands. If you must touch something, use a tissue or your sleeve to cover your hand and fingers as much as possible, then wash your hands.
People should also avoid touching their own face, their nose and their eyes. They are prime places for the virus to enter your body.
Avoid crowds, especially in poorly ventilated spaces. Your risk of exposure to the virus increases in crowded, closed-in settings with little air circulation, especially if there are people in the crowd who are already sick.
Clean and disinfect your home, including computer keyboards and phones as well as doorknobs, handles and light switches.
The CDC also suggests everyone avoid non-essential travel by plane and to especially avoid cruise ships.
If you are feeling ill, stay home. You can keep in touch with friends and family by phone or email.
So what are the symptoms of the coronavirus? Pay attention to shortness of breath, fever and cough. Emergency signs also include persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion or the inability to arouse someone and a bluish tint to the lips or face.
If the emergency signs appear, go directly to the emergency room. Some people may be hospitalized if the signs are severe enough.
An emergency pandemic plan was developed for Hot Springs County a few years ago so our medical staff, Home Health, Public Health and others are on top of the situation should an outbreak occur here.
At this time, the CDC encourages people not to panic. Yes, this is a new and deadly strain of flu, but using common sense is your best defense against contracting it.
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