Coronavirus Disease COVID-19: Don’t Panic — Prepare

Covid-19 coughing
 
 

To date, 80% of COVID-19 cases have been mild. However, you should prepare for the likely increase of outbreaks throughout the U.S. Just as you prepare when there is a bad weather forecast, or other emergencies you should prepare for the likely increase of COVID-19 outbreaks throughout the U.S. Don’t panic — but do prepare.

HOW CAN I STAY HEALTHY?

Wash your hands as soon as you walk through the door. Wash hands frequently or use hand sanitizer - make sure it contains at least 60% alcohol. Avoid touching your face, eyes and nose. This will decrease your risk of contracting the virus by 30-50%. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds — sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice. Cough into your elbow and be sure to throw out your used tissues, since they might have virus particles on them.

SHOULD I STOCK UP ON FOOD AND MEDS?

Stock up on certain products now. Purchase nonperishable foods to carry you and your family for a couple of weeks. Stock up on your go-to sickbed foods, like chicken or vegetable broth and crackers and hydrating drinks. You want to avoid crowds to minimize your risk of catching the disease. If you take daily medications, make sure you have enough to last a couple of weeks. Also, have fever reducers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

ARE SPECIAL CLEANING SUPPLIES NEEDED?

We still don’t know exactly how long COVID-19 can survive on surfaces.We know from other coronaviruses that most household cleansers — such as bleach wipes or soap and water— will kill them. Thoroughly wipe down surfaces that are touched frequently.

WHAT ABOUT FACE MASKS?

The science on whether it’s helpful to wear a face mask out in public is mixed. It depends on what kind of mask you are wearing and whether you use it correctly. Talk to your doctor. Experts agree that wearing a mask is a good idea if you are caring for a sick person or if you are sick, so you can reduce the chances that you’ll infect others.

WHAT TO DO ABOUT WORK?

If you are sick, you should stay home. If there is an outbreak in your community talk to your boss about your job and how that would impact your ability to do it.

DO YOU HAVE A PLAN FOR KIDS AND OLDER RELATIVES?

Start figuring out now what you would do if day care centers or schools start closing because of an outbreak. Do you have a backup childcare plan in place? Think about if an out of town loved one gets sick. How will you get care for them? It would be wise to reach out now to friends or neighbors who might be able to help in such situations. Take the same precautions you would during the flu season. The best way to prevent the spread of this new virus is to cover your cough, stay home when you’re sick and avoid being within six feet of others who might be sick.

RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE CDC INCLUDE:

  • 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.

  • When using a hand sanitizer, make sure it contains at least 60 percent alcohol.

  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

  • Don’t shake hands. It’s not about being rude, it’s just being careful.

  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

  • Take good care of yourself. For example, quit smoking. The healthier you are, the better your chances of “weathering the storm.”

  • Don’t wear face masks unless you are sick. They need to be conserved in case of emergency.

  • Consider what you would do if schools or daycares close.

  • Stay home if you are sick.

  • Check CDC travel guidelines before taking a trip.


What should I do if I think I have symptoms?

BLUE SHIELD

Blue Shield of California provides Teladoc Health’s virtual care service at no cost to most members in response to COVID-19 Teladoc Health provides medical advice over smartphones or computers from physicians anytime from anywhere in order to reduce the risk of infection and spread of disease. Blue Shield members are encouraged to visit blueshieldca.com/teladoc or download the Blue Shield of California app on their smart phones to sign up for the service.

Co-pays and co-insurance for Teladoc Health visits will be waived for members enrolled in any of Blue Shield’s plans until May 31, 2020.

KAISER PERMANENTE

If you develop symptoms (fever, cough, trouble breathing) or you believe you’ve been exposed, it’s important to call us first so we can direct you to the most appropriate care.

Call the advice number on your Kaiser Permanente membership card to speak with a licensed care provider or to schedule a telephone or video appointment with your doctor.

If you don’t have your membership card with you, visit kp.org/getcare and click on “24/7 advice.”