Protecting Yourself and Others from Covid-19

Covid-19 better known as the Coronavirus is in full focus around the world. The more we can learn about the disease and what we can do to protect ourselves the better off we will all be.

We are grateful for Beth Jenkins taking time to speak on this subject during our worship hour last Sunday. Beth works for the Wake County Health Department and is privileged to receive information that is helpful to all of us.

Beth made available some guidelines which we need to take seriously as this virus spreads. Copies are available in the Narthex. Additional information is available in the Narthex from a doctor who was a Professor of Pathology at the University of California in San Diego in the 1970’s.

What all of us need to understand is that at the present there is no vaccine available for the Coronavirus and it may take up to two years before one is available. The crisis is upon us and therefore every one of us must take measures which may demand that we change some of our habits to avoid exposure to the virus which attacks the lungs. The basic protective measures are simple and doable.

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly throughout the day, for at least 20 seconds after using the bathroom, before eating, after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. If soap and water are not available use alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
  2. No handshakes or hugs – use fist or elbow bumps, bow or nod your head.
  3. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  4. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth (something we do unconsciously multiple times a day).
  5. Use gloves, wipes or paper towel at the gas pump or to open doors in public places. Use closed fist, elbow or hip to keep door open.
  6. Use knuckle to touch light switches, elevator buttons, etc.
  7. STAY HOME IF YOU ARE SICK.
  8. Cover your cough. Sneeze with a tissue then throw the tissue away
  9. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces such as doorknobs, tables, metal surfaces, car door using household spray or wipe.
  10. Use paper towels, disposable Latex gloves or wipes at gas pumps, on shopping carts or areas thought to be contaminated.
  11. Avoid large crowds at public events and when in public keep your distance from others as much as possible.
  12. Unless you are sick or have an emergency avoid visits to the hospital.
  13. Pray for one another, use telephone to visit with others, share prayer concerns with church office, Pastor, or Deacon.
  14. If you are unable to attend Sunday School, Worship or Prayer Service, please mail your tithes and offerings to the church as expenses continue even when attendance is impossible.
Protecting Yourself and Others from Covid-19