Though not as deadly as the flu (as of this writing), the new Coronavirus, like any virus, can be a risk to our children, elderly, and sick. Until vaccines are implemented, your soap dish and local janitors rise to become heroes during a time of great concern.
The facts are as follows: in the USA as of March 3rd, there were 9 deaths from the new COVID-19 virus. In the same time period, in the USA alone, there have been 43,000 deaths from influenza (the Flu). We fight disease every day in our country, health scare or not, there are always serious risks in this crazy world of ours. Here are some proven facts to keep you safe and being a part of the solution, instead of part of the problem.
The best way to avoid spreading illness is, you guessed it, staying clean. And who better to keep the public safe? Janitors, the unsung heroes of disease prevention. They keep our public areas clean and sanitized, and without them, things would certainly be a lot worse. So when you see a janitor in your school or work next, remember that they are keeping you and your loved ones safe from all kinds of potential health risks! We here at Swept appreciate the heck right out of every janitor out there!
Checklist of did you knows:
- Did you know that the #1 way to avoid the spread of coronavirus was washing your hands?
- Did you know that you need to wash your hands for a full 20 seconds for it to be effective against contagion and bacteria?
- Did you know that covering a cough or sneeze can do a lot to prevent transmission of viruses?
More easily prevented than you realise
The simplest solutions are truly the absolute most effective. And the CDC (center for disease control) wants people to know that being diligent in handwashing and generally being in good health will help prevent the spread of viruses more than many other prevention measures combined.
But let’s be super serious for a moment. We don’t want you to take our word for this. In fact, we want you to question EVERYTHING you read about this issue. There are so many untruths and silly rumors spreading on the internet these days. For your own health and peace of mind, we want you to fact check.
Centers for Disease Control: Atlanta
So here is the fact check for this article. Straight from the absolute authority in the USA on the matter. The CDC (Centers for Disease Control). Here is what the CDC has to give for advice:
There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. However, as a reminder, CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Follow CDC’s recommendations for using a facemask.
- CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19.
- Face Masks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings (at home or in a healthcare facility).
- 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.
- If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
For information about hand-washing, see CDC’s Hand-washing website
For information specific to healthcare, see CDC’s Hand Hygiene in Healthcare Settings
These are everyday habits that can help prevent the spread of several viruses. CDC does have specific guidance for travelers
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