By now, we are all pretty much aware of the spread of COVID-19 across the world (and more and more within the U.S. and within Georgia). Containment measure so far have not stopped the spread of the disease and it continues to expand in multiple areas around the nation. As the number of tests conducted ramps up, we fully expect to see an increase in the number of positive COVID-19 diagnoses. As Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, stated on NBC News, “Meet the Press” yesterday (and documented in this video interview, NIH’s Dr. Fauci to Elderly and Vulnerable: ‘Don’t Get on a Cruise Ship’), ‘we are now working on both containment and mitigation (lessening the severity/impact as much as possible)’.
So, here are 3 things to consider doing, as of right now:
- As of today, you should have set aside a minimum of 14 days worth of food and supplies for your family at home in case you are directed into self-isolation or self-quarantine by your local health department (CDC – Get Your Home Ready – Checklist for Individuals and Families) . Once directed to self-isolate, it is too late to go shopping at that point. This needs to be a priority. If you do not voluntarily self-isolate/quarantine, you may be forced by law to comply by the local health department (Missouri Coronavirus Patient’s Family Break Quarantine, Attend School Dance)
- Next, identify the best sources to obtain the most up to date and accurate information available on the virus and how best to prevent being exposed to someone with the virus, to avoid acquiring it, if at all possible and/or how best to care for a loved one with the disease. Here are some important links to resources/updated information that you should consider adding to your browser favorites:
- Prepare for the long haul on this one. Since there are many uncertainties related to the duration of the COVID-19 outbreak, plan for the long term.
Mark Lupo, MBCP, SMP