Navigating COVID-19 and What YOU Can Do
We've seen a lot of unexpected things in the first quarter of 2020, COVID-19 being most severe. Who could have imagined that we would be where we are?
We all have a certain duty as prudent members of society, and to be mindful of our fellow brothers and sisters. Aside from the obvious actions (that we ALL should have been doing in the first place) of washing our hands, coughing in your inner elbow or a tissue, keeping a proper distance from others in public, etc.
Here are some things we can all do to make navigating the COVID-19 pandemic a little easier for all of us.
1. Follow The Law
We've been ordered to self-quarantine and to follow (incredibly) basic, good health practices. Let's follow the law so that we can move past this phase. Breaking the law, being rebellious, or trying to prove to other people that you're tough or fearless doesn't prove anything. It puts high risk people (the elderly, asthmatics, those with compromised immune systems) in danger, and causes additional laws and ordinances to be put in place.
2. Stop Hoarding
When people panic buy and hoards goods, it hinders the next person who actually needs whatever is no longer available. It becomes a self-fulfilling prophesy. From what I understand, people who went out and panic purchased were simply ill-informed, and caused problems for other people. It's good that stores have finally begun implementing purchase limits, but it's a bit too late. Hopefully society can get to the point where we are considerate of others instead of only ourselves. I'm just hoping the stores restock toilet tissue before we run out...
3. Wash Your Hands
Don't just use hand sanitizer! Take the time to actually wash your hands. If we're self-quarantined, that means we aren't out in public as much, which also means you have access to a sink and soap, which also means there isn't a huge need for hand sanitizer. If you're at home, take the time to actually wash your hands, and not just ooze on the hand sanitizer. Hand washing with soap and water goes a long way.
4. Watch Out For Media
The media isn't always very trustworthy - including magazines, tv, online publications, and social media. You have to be really mindful because accurate information isn't always shared, and sometimes the media is simply trying to invoke panic. The other day, I was on the CDC's website, and later went to read an article on a renowned publication site. In the article, I noticed that many of the statistics were severely inflated as compared to what was reported by the CDC. So, if you want facts and accurate information, I recommend going to unbiased sources who simply report the facts. The CDC has all the information you need. You can also likely rely on local news stations to report accurate information. Also check your local government websites for specific executive orders and ordinances.
5. Check on The Elderly
The elderly are one of the groups most vulnerable to COVID-19. Make sure they have groceries, meals to eat, activities to keep them company, and more. My husband's grandfather was in the hospital following a surgery, and hospital officials banned all visitation to minimize the risk of contamination. With all the people panic buying, many elderly people were not able to buy groceries, simply because there was no stock left. If you were a panic buyer (shame on you!), be mindful and share some of your treasure with elderly family members, friends, or acquaintances who may be in need.
6. Support Small Businesses
All the big box guys will be just fine because their products are flying off the shelves. Be sure to support your local small businesses to help them stay in business. That small mom and pop restaurant around the corner? Order food from them and go pick it up. Those businesses that aren't considered "essential", see if they have a website or if you can order whatever goods they sell over the phone.
7. Exercise!
Keep your body moving so that you don't add on too many extra pounds. You can purchase simple fitness equipment online or at your local big box store while the gym is closed. You can also walk and jog around your neighborhood and local parks. If you have a smart watch of any sort, try to keep a daily step goal. Medical science has proven that too many extra pounds may lead to a series of medical conditions, including high blood pressure, diabetes, bone problems and more.
What can you add to this list?