The novel coronavirus has spread across countries and the possibility of a pandemic seems imminent. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have issued a 'to-do' list in case of an outbreak.
What to buy?
The US Department of Homeland Security recommends storing a two-week supply of water and food, along with some over-the-counter medication you may need. The department said, “Have any non-description drugs and other health supplies on hand, including pain relievers, stomach remedies, cough and cold medicines, fluids with electrolytes and vitamins.”
It added, “In general for emergency preparedness, we encourage all households to have an emergency response kit.”
Places to avoid
The CDC recommends travellers avoid all non-essential travel to mainland China and South Korea. It has even issued travel alerts for older people and people with chronic medical conditions urging them to consider postponing non-essential travel to Italy, Iran, and Japan. Health officials recommend to be mindful of avoiding close contact with people who may be sick. On the off chance you are sick, keep your distance from others.
Should your children go to school?
If your child is even slightly sick, it is important to keep them home from school in order to protect other students. Keep an eye on local school closings. The CDC said widespread transmission of the novel coronavirus could lead to schools, child care centers and other places for mass gatherings experiencing more absenteeism and even shutting down if that precaution is needed.
Director of the CDC's National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Dr Nancy Messonnier said one should plan for what to do if their lives were significantly impacted. She added her agency wants people to understand their lives might be disrupted.
What about work? Is going to the office safe?
The CDC has posted guidance on its website to help businesses and employers plan for possibly including telework or flexible sick leave policies into operations if there is significant spread of the virus across the country. Sick employees shouldn't return to work until their temperature has stayed below 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit for at least 24 hours, without the help of fever-reducing or other symptom-altering medicine.
What about my medications?
It is recommended to periodically check your regular prescription drugs to ensure you have a continuous supply in your home if needed. You could also get copies and maintain electronic versions of health records from doctors, hospitals, pharmacies and other sources and store them for personal reference.
Do you need a facemask?
It is not recommended for people who are well to wear facemasks. In fact, it is only suggested if a healthcare professional recommends it. A facemask should be used by people who have the novel coronavirus and are showing symptoms.
