Coronavirus
WHO DECLARED PANDEMIC - MARCH 11, 2020
NEED TO KNOW FACTS
Originated in Wuhan, China
Transmitted via respiratory droplets (SNEEZE / COUGH)
Transmission occurs within 6 feet of infected individual
Dangerous for elderly + immunocompromised
Less likely to severely affect children less than 8 years old
Rapidly spreading worldwide thanks to global travel
Symptoms similar to influenza virus
Symptoms : cough, myalgias, fever, fatigue + shortness of breath
N95 masks can prevent contracting virus
COVID-19 is the other name for this virus
COVID-19 can have delayed severe respiratory distress
Biggest risk is hypoxia (low oxygen) from respiratory compromise
Incubation period is between 5-14 days
CDC website is best resource for frequent updates
Fever + respiratory symptoms + exposure = evaluation needed
High local spread China, South Korea, Italy, Japan + Iran
Use precautions when traveling to Hong Kong
Testing for COVID-19 is extremely limited
There are no vaccines or antivirals
Complications from virus in pregnancy unknown
GET PREPARED
Stock up on hand sanitizer (60 - 95% alcohol)
Purchase canned goods + bottled water
Be prepared in case you need to self quarantine
Purchase travel insurance for any trips at risk of being canceled
Plan ways to care for individuals in your family at high risk
Choose a room in your household that can separate sick individuals
Be prepared if your child’s school closes
Plan for potential changes at work + review sick leave policies
Talk with your children, reassure them they are safe + keep calm
Be aware of school closures in your area
HOW TO BEST AVOID GETTING IT
Avoid close contact with people who are sick
N95 mask wearing in public
Wash hands with soap + water for 20 seconds frequently
Do not travel to areas with high concentration of virus
Consider delaying unnecessary travel plans if possible
Check CDC website for destination specific travel risk
Avoid large group gatherings with international attendance
Remove facial hair - makes N95 mask less protective
Many companies have banned non-essential travel. Has yours?
Limit visits to nursing homes + hospitals
Clean frequently touched surfaces including your cell phone
Daily wipe-down of doorknobs, tabletops + toilets
For a list of COVID-19 fighting products - see CDC PDF
Stay home if severe outbreak in your community
Limit close contact with others
Stay in touch with others via phone + email
Don’t shake hands or hug during this outbreak
HOW TO BEST AVOID SPREADING IT
Stay at home when you are sick
Do not go to work, school or public places
Avoid using public transportation, rideshares + public taxis
Cover your coughs + sneezes with a tissue
Wear surgical mask to prevent transmission
Immediate self quarantine
Utilize Telemedicine if needed
Only present to hospital for severe respiratory difficulty
Healthcare workers should use personal protective equipment
Notify your workplace of any direct contact + potential time off
Don’t share dishes, towels or drinking cups
SELF QUARANTINE DETAILS
For people in contact with a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 case
For people waiting for person under investigation results
14 days / keep track + notify your healthcare provider
Monitor yourself for development of viral symptoms
Seek immediate medical evaluation for difficulty breathing
The situation is rapidly changing so make sure you stay up to date with current recommendations.
For more details regarding COVID-19 and interrupted travel plans click this link.
Remember to review the PASEO HEALTH GUIDE for your chosen destination prior to your departure for more detailed information.
You may also schedule a BESPOKE TRAVEL HEALTH CONSULTATION for a thorough travel health assessment prior to your trip.
Safe Travels!