Stop the Spread

The Panic Pandemic

Within the past month, students across the world have experienced major upheaval at the hands of COVID-19. The infectious nature of the virus has caused extreme government action, leaving individuals quarantined and frightened. Such uncertainty can cause panic among the masses, as we’re bombarded with new information every day.

Our best weapon against COVID-19 for both emotional and physical well-being is to remain informed and at home. Below are some key facts regarding the virus, how to protect you and your loved ones, as well as how to cope with quarantine.

The following information is taken directly from the Center for Disease Control official website.

A high area of stress for many individuals comes from the fear that they themselves are infected with the Coronavirus. In order to determine whether you or a loved one should get tested, it’s important to do a self assessment at home first.

Symptoms Include:

[if !supportLists]- [endif]Fever (100.2 or above)

[if !supportLists]- [endif]Cough

[if !supportLists]- [endif]Shortness of Breath

These symptoms can range from mild to severe and typically appear 2-14 days after exposure. You know your body and when something isn’t right. Listen to signs/symptoms. If showing any symptoms, contact your healthcare provider and they’ll help assess whether you should be tested.

Facts regarding the spread of COVID-19:

[if !supportLists]- [endif]The virus is mainly spread through respiratory droplets from a sneeze or cough of an infected person

[if !supportLists]- [endif]Touching your eyes, mouth, or nose increases your chance of infection

Practical Tips for Staying Healthy

[if !supportLists]- [endif]Stay home as much as possible. I know it’s hard, but the less you’re out, the less you expose yourself and others to foreign germs.

[if !supportLists]- [endif]Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. These are easy access points for the virus, and any germs from your phone or a door handle you’ve touched reside all over your hands.

[if !supportLists]- [endif]Wear a face mask while in public. It may not do much to protect you from germs, but it protects those around you. All heroes wear masks, anyway.

[if !supportLists]- [endif]Wash, wash, wash your hands. 20 seconds minimum. Here’s a link to some catchy parodies to sing while washing, so you know it’s 20 seconds. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a2LLF9eE_VI

Despite the upheaval surrounding COVID-19, remaining informed and up to date on information dispersed by the CDC allows individuals to remain calm and collected amidst chaos.