Safety Tidbit 6.05 – Simple Things We Can Do to Reduce the Spread of Covid-19
References: Most Americans Say Coronavirus Outbreak Has Impacted Their Lives
This Safety Tidbit was written by my student, Mr. Adam DiCriscio – a senior in the Safety Sciences Program at the Indiana University of PA graduating Summer 2021.
The Covid-19 outbreak has significantly impacted our lives. It has changed how we work, shop, attend school, and more. According to a study done by the Pew Research Center, “nearly nine-in-ten U.S. adults say their life has changed at least a little as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak, including 44% who say their life has changed in a major way.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tally of Covid-19 cases has reached over fifteen million, with thousands more added daily. Experts are suggesting that this pandemic may last until the end of 2021. The SARS-CoV-2 virus causes Covid-19. This virus can spread from person to person, and when an infected person coughs or sneezes, they release respiratory droplets into the air. Exposure to respiratory droplets is the primary route of transmission for the virus; however, an individual can get infected with SARS-CoV-2 by touching surfaces that contain the virus, followed by the individual touching their mouth, nose, and eyes. Each individual must take personal responsibility to help mitigate Covid-19.
To reduce the spread of SARS-Cov-2, everyone should practice proper hygiene and follow the recommended guidelines. Considering the primary way the virus can spread, airborne respiratory droplets, it is essential to practice social distancing. A minimum of six feet is the recommended distance between yourself and others when outside your home. If a person you live with is infected, you must keep at least six feet from them as well. Six feet is about two arm lengths. Face covering helps reduce the spread of the virus. Always wear a face cover when you are out in public; however, children under two or those who have trouble breathing should not wear a mask. Cover your mouth and nose when you have to cough or sneeze, and use a tissue or inside your elbow to trap the respiratory droplet.
There are also contaminated surfaces. All frequently touched surfaces should be clean and disinfected. First, clean the surface with soap and water, followed by a household disinfectant. Not all surfaces get clean regularly; therefore, frequently wash your hands. CDC guidance suggests washing your hands with soap and water for at least twenty seconds after touching any public surface or after sneezing or coughing. If washing your hands with soap and water is not an option, use a hand sanitizer with a minimum of 60% alcohol.
You should monitor your health every day. Check to see if you have any symptoms of Covid-19. The following symptoms are a good start but by no means an exhausted list: fever, coughing, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle aches, headaches, loss of taste or smells, and diarrhea. CDC also recommends taking your temperature. If you feel any symptoms, stay home, but if you feel that your symptoms are severe, seek medical attention immediately.
In conclusion, each individual can play a part in reducing the spread of Covid-19. When we practice these guidelines, along with good hygiene, we can make a difference.
I hope this was helpful and thank you for reading my Safety Tidbits! Comments and questions are always welcome. ~ Bryan
P.S. If you have a new safety or health question, please let me know.
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