As some communities begin to reopen during the global coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, public health officials say the best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.
Below are some steps from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to help protect yourself and others. Stay informed about what’s happening in your community, and always follow the directions of state and local authorities.
HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF AND OTHERS
WHO IS AT A HIGHER RISK?
According to the CDC, early information shows that older adults, people who live in a nursing home or long-term care facility, and individuals of any age with the conditions below are at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19:
If you are at higher risk for serious illness from COVID-19, it is critical for you to:
IF YOU ARE SICK
COVID-19 symptoms include fever, coughing and shortness of breath, plus additional ones listed on the CDC website. Keep track of your symptoms, which may appear two to 14 days after exposure, and call to seek medical attention if your symptoms worsen, such as difficulty breathing.
If you think you may have been exposed to COVID-19, contact your health care provider immediately.
Mild Illness
Most people have mild illness and are able to recover at home. If you think you are sick:
Emergency Warning Signs
If your symptoms become severe, call to get medical attention immediately. Warning signs include:
This list is not all inclusive. Consult your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning. Call 911 if you have a medical emergency and note if you have, or think you might have, COVID-19.
Review CDC guidance for more information if you are sick, including what to do if you live in close quarters, shared housing or have pets.
New Psychological First Aid: Supporting Yourself and Others during COVID-19 Course
In order to help people build resilience and lend support to others during these difficult times, Red Cross Training Services has developed a new Psychological First Aid: Supporting Yourself and Others during COVID-19 course. The content is based on guidance from the American Red Cross Scientific Advisory Council, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). The online course takes approximately one hour to complete and includes content on recognizing stress as well as caring for yourself while supporting your family and coworkers.
FINDING UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION
Visit redcross.org/coronavirus for more information on COVID-19 safety. For the latest information, please visit the CDC website at cdc.gov/covid19. If you live outside the United States, health and safety tips can be found through the World Health Organization and by following your local Red Cross or Red Crescent society’s social media channels (directory).
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
Support all the urgent humanitarian needs of the American Red Cross.
Find a drive and schedule a blood donation appointment today.
Take a class and be ready to respond if an emergency strikes.