Editor’s note: This article was published on March 23, 2020. COVID-19 information and recommendations are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website or view our most recent COVID-19 blog posts.

There is a ton of info in the media about the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) but what’s most important for you to know? Consider these “do” and “don’t” suggestions, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia:

Do:

1. Take this situation seriously
2. Learn how the virus spreads
3. Cover mouth/nose with a tissue when coughing/sneezing
4. Practice social distancing
5. Avoid close contact with people who are sick
6. Protect yourself – wash hands with soap, water
7. Get help if stress is not manageable
8. Use technology to avoid social isolation
9. Be in the know – keep current with info
10. Call your doctor if you have symptoms

Don’t:

1. Go anywhere if you’re sick
2. Spend lots of time in public places
3. Stop cleaning/disinfecting frequently-touched surfaces
4. Panic
5. Travel unless it’s necessary
6. Hesitate to talk with your provider if you are sick
7. Downplay your risks for illness
8. Stop educating your kids about self-care
9. Stop treatment for preexisting mental health conditions
10. Ignore signs of anxiety in your family, friends

Check out the CDC website to dig deeper for info about this COVID-19 situation and if you need medical care, call your health care provider before coming in to be seen except if it’s an emergency.

Resources:

Wisconsin Department of Health Services

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

World Health Organization

Marshfield Clinic Coronavirus Updates 

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