As you might have heard about the novel of SARS-CoV-2 so-called COVID-19 and its cases soaring at a devastating rate, it is imperative that we must disinfect and protect ourselves from obtaining the infection. This may be a hackneyed command, but we should try to understand what our government and other organizations are doing to warn us. Moreover, the AUSD staff and administration has sent out several emails to families regarding the avoidance of the virus. Let’s take a look at a brief overview of how we can “stay safer” at home!

Knowing that there are currently no vaccines or medications to prevent the virus, the Centers for Disease Control and Protection (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have provided the public a kid-friendly guideline that mainly deals with easy steps to stay protected. 

Who Is At High Risk

Those who are older or may have severe conditions such as heart or lung disease or diabetes may be at a higher risk of developing serious complications from the virus. Thus, if you know any individuals who have these risk factors, please advise them to stay home. 

Know How It Spreads

We should all know by now that the disease is transmissible and primarily affects the respiratory area. Since the virus mainly spreads from person-to-person, the Department of Public Health has advised individuals to avoid public crowds or populated areas and stay six feet away from others. According to the CDC, every time a cough or a sneeze is simulated through an infected person, a respiratory droplet is produced, meaning that the virus is airborne. These airborne droplets are able to land in sensitive areas such as the mouth or nose and can be inhaled into the lungs and cause an infection. 

Easy Steps to Stay Protected

As of now, it is our obligation to stay safe and quarantined at home. There are several simple steps that you can avoid the virus without any medications or vaccines. Whether you have been outside on a jog or have been outside to purchase products, you should always wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap to disinfect bacteria. It’s also important that you avoid touching any parts of your body that are sensitive such as your eyes, mouth, nose, or face. 

Staying Protected Outdoors

Taking a trip to the grocery store happens often as many shoppers tend to use their hands to open doors with the handle, touch food products, and move shopping carts around. To avoid bacterias on these objects, considering bringing your own grocery bag, some gloves, hand sanitizer, and clean wipes. These tools come in hand when disinfecting objects that may have the infection and staying safe from catching the germs. 

When and How to Use a Mask

The WHO provided the public with an advice page on how to use a mask appropriately. They advise individuals “who are coughing and sneezing to wear a mask; however, those who are healthy do not require the mask [unless] they are assisting one who is suspected of the infection.” 

Once the mask is completely covering your nose and mouth, avoid touching the product as it may collect germs and bacteria. To remove the product, use the string of the mask which is located around the ear, to discard the mask into the bin. Avoid touching the front of it. After discarding the product, wash your hands immediately.  

As the L.A. County puts in lots of effort to respond to this elevating pandemic, we should try to consider these instructions given by the public health organizations of how the virus spreads and how to stay protected! 

Graphic Courtesy of KDRV.COM