This is a challenging time for our community. Please know that I am available for any questions or concerns you might have regarding staying healthy and what to do if you or your child are sick. I can be reached easily by email at Josie.Lang@colchestersd.org.
Remember the Basics for Preventing Illness:
- Wash your hands often
- Avoid touching your face
- Clean frequently touched surfaces and objects
- Avoid public areas unless necessary
- Stay home if you're sick
Be Informed:
- The Vermont Department of Health and the CDC are the most trusted sources of information and guidance
- Avoid overexposure to news and media posts
- Listen, acknowledge, and reassure your children
- Here are some tips for talking with children
- Maintain structure and routine at home
- Go outside, read, play
What to Do if you Get Sick:
Due to limited tests, most people will not be tested for COVID-19 at this time, unless they have underlying conditions or are a health-care professional. Call your primary doctor for guidance. DO NOT go to the emergency room unless you have life-threatening symptoms. DO NOT call the Health Department, they cannot approve testing. Testing is not treatment! COVID-19 is treated like the flu or any other virus.
- Stay home from work, school, and away from other public places.
- Monitor your symptoms carefully. If your symptoms get worse, call your healthcare provider immediately.
- Get rest and stay hydrated.
- If you have a medical appointment, call the healthcare provider ahead of time and tell them that you have or may have COVID-19. If you don't have a health care provider, you can call 2-1-1 for guidance.
- For medical emergencies, call 911 and notify the dispatch personnel that you have or may have COVID-19.
- Cover your cough and sneezes.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
- As much as possible, stay in a specific room and away from other people in your home. Also, you should use a separate bathroom, if available. If you need to be around other people in or outside of the home, wear a facemask.
- Avoid sharing personal items with other people in your household, like dishes, towels, and bedding
- Clean all surfaces that are touched often, like counters, tabletops, and doorknobs. Use household cleaning sprays or wipes according to the label instructions.
Be Well,
Nurse Josie
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