How to Protect Yourself and Others Against COVID-19
The novel coronavirus pandemic has deeply impacted every facet of our daily lives. During this unprecedented outbreak, the city of Los Angeles – along with the rest of California — has adopted precautionary measures to curb the spread of COVID-19. Los Angeles Mayor Garcetti’s Emergency Order calls upon residents to stay at home and restrict all excursions to those which are absolutely essential.
The ‘Safer at Home’ order is expected to last through May 15, 2020, but further extensions are possible. The practice of self-isolation for weeks on end during an infectious outbreak can lead to stress, anxiety, and fear – especially when family members and loved ones are at risk.
As of April 12, a total of 22,348 people in California had tested positive for the novel coronavirus, and 3,015 of these patients are hospitalized. As the entire world now knows, the virus is highly contagious and spread from person to person through contact with respiratory droplets.
Healthcare professionals working on the frontline have the highest risk of exposure, but the threat of severe respiratory illness does not discriminate. We urge our communities to stay safe, remain vigilant, and follow CDC guidelines for protecting themselves against the novel coronavirus.
How to protect yourself from COVID 19
- If you have to buy groceries, go to the pharmacy, or interact with people not in your household, wear a cloth face covering
- Maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from others
- If you have to sneeze or cough, do so into your elbow, or cover your face with a tissue
- Wash your hands with warm water and soap for a minimum of 20 seconds after being in a public place or touching objects
- If you cannot wash your hands, use a sanitizer gel with at least 60 percent alcohol
- Do not touch your face if you have not washed your hands
- In your household, disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily with an alcohol or bleach solution
- Consider quitting vaping or smoking, as this increases your risk of respiratory illness
- Keep your distance from anyone who is sick
- Respect stay-at-home orders
Symptoms & COVID-19 testing
If you, or a member of your household, experiences mild symptoms of COVID-19 such as fever, dry cough, headache, or a runny nose, take steps to isolate yourself. If possible, use a different bathroom and bedroom, and do not share bedding, towels, or other household items.
In the event that your symptoms begin to worsen or you have difficulty breathing, seek medical advice quickly. You may be directed to a facility for COVID-19 testing.
Same-day testing has been made available to “high risk” patients, including those who are immune-compromised, people over the age of 65, and those with existing health conditions including:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Chronic lung disease
- High blood pressure
- Asthma
The COVID-19 crisis has created a new era of uncertainty – but it is a battle that our communities are facing with courage, compassion, and resilience.
Ellis Injury Law wishes everyone continued health as the pandemic continues to evolve. Stay safe and informed about COVID-19.
Additional Resources:
- CDC, How to Protect Yourself & Others Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html
- CA Department of Public Health, COVID 19 Updates https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/Immunization/ncov2019.aspx