The Coronavirus (COVID-19) is an epidemic which was first detected in China. As of this moment, it has been detected in 60 locations internationally, including in the United States. As a mom, there are certain precautions I am utilizing to protect my family against Coronavirus. Please keep in mind, I am absolutely NOT a medical professional. I am a mom doing what I believe to be best for my family.
I will be continuously updating this post as more information becomes available.
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What is Coronavirus (COVID-19)?
By now I’m sure you have heard of the coronavirus, but what exactly is it? According to the CDC, a novel coronavirus is a new coronavirus that has not been previously identified. The virus causing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), is not the same as the coronaviruses that commonly circulate among humans and cause mild illness, like the common cold. This makes the virus tricky, because we don’t understand it. There aren’t currently any vaccinations or antibiotics available for coronavirus.
How is Coronovirus transmitted?
Someone who is actively sick with COVID-19 can spread the illness to others. The CDC recommends that these patients be isolated either in the hospital or at home (depending on how sick they are) until they no longer pose a risk of infecting others.
Coronavirus is spread by inhaling droplets from an infected person when they cough or sneeze, or by touching a surface where these droplets land and then touching your face.
What are the symptoms of Coronavirus?
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
Reported illnesses have ranged from mild to severe in symptoms. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure. If you’ve been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19, contact your healthcare provider.
What precautions am I using to protect my family against Coronavirus?
Unfortunately, we don’t know enough about this virus. But we DO know about the flu. Currently the CDC reports 32 MILLION cases of the flu this year alone in the United States. I’ve always been diligent on flu prevention, so I’m utilizing those tips to keep my family healthy. Here’s what we do to prevent the flu:
- Get our flu shots. I’m going to be honest with you. I NEVER had a flu shot until I was pregnant with my oldest son. Since then, my husband and I have received the vaccine each year. Our children also receive the flu shot. My oldest son did get the flu last year, HOWEVER, his symptoms weren’t very severe and he bounced back within two days. I’d like to believe this is because he received the vaccine.
- Boost your immune system with Elderberry gummies. I’ve been using these gummies for years before travel to give our immune systems a boost. I just stocked up on a few bottles, and plan on taking them daily. My kids and husband will be taking them as well.
- Wash your hands. No seriously guys. WASH YOUR FREAKING HANDS! Do you know how many times I see people NOT wash their hands in a public restroom? More often than not! Washing your hands with warm soapy water kills bacteria and viruses! Do your part!! This one is EASY!!
- Carry hand sanitizer. Throw a bottle in your bag, in your car, wherever.
- Use disinfecting wipes. These antibacterial wipes are perfect for on-the-go! If you’re traveling by plane, train, or bus, wipe down any surface with these wipes. They’re also great to use for wiping tables down at restaurants, or even shopping carts!
- Cough and sneeze into your elbow.
- Avoid going out in public when you’re sick.
- Stay hydrated! Drink that H2O!
- Go outside! It’s amazing what a little natural Vitamin D can do for your body.
Please note…if you have an immune compromised illness, you might need to take alternative precautions. Check with your doctor.
Coronavirus hits Rhode Island
In case you didn’t know, our family lives in Rhode Island. Over the weekend we had our first person test positive for coronavirus. As of right now, one other person is infected (they were on the same trip), and another is awaiting test results.
***UPDATE*** As of March 11, 2020, Rhode Island now has 5 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Rhode Island has also declared State of Emergency.
***UPDATE*** As of March 13, 2020, all Rhode Island schools are closed for the next week. They will reevaluate towards the end of the week.
Should we panic? Personally, I don’t think so. A friend of mine shared an informative graphic the other day.
Currently, there is NO need to panic. Doing so will only result in mass hysteria. If there is a reason to be more concerned, you will be notified. Keep an eye on the CDC website for current and ACCURATE information. Try to avoid getting your info from the news, or hearsay. Stay home if you’re sick, and I’m going to say it again…WASH YOUR HANDS!!
**Update March 11, 2020:** The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially declared Coronavirus as a pandemic.
**UPDATE March 13, 2020:** We are now at a point where social distancing is recommended. You can read a great article about this, here.
**UPDATE March 18, 2020:** The Coronavirus is now in all 50 states. In Rhode Island, we are out of school until April 6, 2020. At that time they’ll reevaluate and see if the schools need to be closed longer. I’m predicting they will be closed the duration of the school year.
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