Take Everyday Steps to Guard Against Coronavirus

As the 2019 coronavirus – which causes the disease known as COVID-19 – continues to be a public health concern, citizens can do their part in responding to the illness.

Because there is currently no vaccine to prevent COVID-19, health officials agree that the best protection from the virus and others, like the flu, is practicing everyday habits.

As a reminder, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) always recommends preventive actions to help stop the spread of respiratory diseases, including:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• 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 objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
• If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
• Follow CDC’s recommendations for using a facemask.
  • CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19.
  • Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings.

Older people and people with certain underlying health conditions like heart disease, lung disease and cancer seem to be at greater risk of serious illness.

The North Oaks COVID-19 Screening line is (985) 230-2778. Call if you have fever, rapid onset or deepening of cough or difficulty breathing. You will be screened and given directions.

Because this is a rapidly evolving situation please visit www.northoaks.org/coronavirus for more information and updates.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

HELPFUL RESOURCES

North Oaks Health System – www.northoaks.org/coronavirus
Louisiana Dept. of Health – www.ldh.la.gov/coronavirus
Centers for Disease Prevention & Control – www.cdc.gov/coronavirus
National Alliance on Mental Illness – www.nami.org
Keeping Calm through COVID Hotline – 1 (866) 310-7977 (24/7)
North Oaks Screening Line – (985) 230-2778