We at the RWC Insurance Advantage, like everyone, are most concerned about the pandemic known officially as COVID-19. We think we have a responsibility to make our insureds aware of steps they can take to minimize exposure for themselves, their employees and subcontractors and their customers. While everything in this blog has been said, we think it bears repeating. Therefore, this month’s blog is devoted to steps you can take to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
People ages 60 and over are at higher risk of contracting the coronavirus infection. Symptoms include fever, dry cough and difficulty breathing. Covid-19 is spread primarily from person to person. Older adults can protect themselves from infection doing the following:
THINK YOU MAY BE SICK?
- Before going to an appointment, call your doctor.
- Don’t use public transportation.
- Stay home from work.
- Make use of local health hotlines and other resources for more information.
CHANGING YOUR HEALTHCARE ROUTINE:
- Cancel or postpone non-essential doctor’s visits.
- If possible, schedule telehealth sessions for essential appointments.
- Always designate an emergency contact.
- Use hand sanitizer when soap isn’t available
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
TAKE INVENTORY OF ESSENTIAL SUPPLIES:
- Do you have enough groceries and household products to last for at least two weeks at home?
- Prescription medication may be difficult to get in advance. Make use of mail ordering or order online.
ABOUT TRAVEL PLANS:
- Avoid nonessential travel, especially by air.
- Cruise ship passengers are at a higher risk of infection. Cancel or postpone any cruises.
WHAT TO CHANGE? YOUR LIFE:
- If you live in an area where there is an outbreak, stay home.
- Avoid crowds and poorly ventilated buildings.
- Keep several feet of separation from people in public places, or avoid such places if possible.
- Wash your hands with soap after being in public places.
- Keep in touch with family and friends if you need to self-quarantine.
FRIENDS OR LOVED ONES IN NURSING HOMES:
- Most long-term care facilities have emergency plans in place for dealing with pandemics.
- Contact the nursing home for details on their plan.
- DO NOT visit a nursing home if you are sick.
- Determine an alternative means of communication if the nursing home prohibits visitors.
SPECIAL NOTE: As organizations like the C.D.C and W.H.O. learn more about COVID-19, advice on preparedness and prevention may change. Be sure to monitor these sources for the latest updates. Here are links:
We wish you good health and all the best as we all work through this crisis.