Going Viral: How to Stop Coronavirus
You’ve probably heard that the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak around the world is passed from person to person and can make people very sick.
As your partners in health, we want to share some tips to help you prevent the spread of COVID-19—and more common illnesses like colds and the flu.
Here are 6 practical ways to cope with the flurry of news reports and social media posts you may have seen.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water. Scrub with soap for at least 20 seconds. Key times to wash: before eating, after you’ve been around crowds (like riding a bus), after going to the bathroom, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- Can’t wash? Alcohol-based hand sanitizers also kill germs. Choose products with 60% alcohol.
- Don’t touch your eyes or nose—unless you’ve just washed your hands. Now that we’ve said that, it’s so tempting to touch!
- Stay home when you’re sick, especially if you have lung problems or are older. Keep sick kids and elders home.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. You guessed it—then wash your hands.
- Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces you touch often. Use a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
Where can I find care?
Call your healthcare provider by phone if you think you have COVID-19 or have been in close contact with someone with the virus.
What symptoms should I look for?
Fever, cough, and difficulty breathing
More support
It can be hard to stick to your health goals when you’re worried about an outbreak. Message your Vida Health coach or therapist in Chat if you’d like support during times like these.
Resources to trust from CDC
Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, World Health Organization
