It is very likely COVID-19 will continue to spread during 2021 but there are some simple ways to help you and your family stay healthy.
Hand Washing
One of the best defenses against COVID-19 is to wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Wear a Mask
Everyone should wear a mask in public settings and when around people who don’t live in your household, especially when other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain. Masks should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.
Disinfecting Your Home
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks. Use soap and water prior to disinfection, then use a household disinfectant.
We reached out to some of the best experts, YOU, for other safety tips. Here is what you had to say:
Ashley: “We try to stay away from large crowds. Always wear a mask. Keep hands washed with soap and water when we can but have Germ-X with us at all times in case we can’t. Try to be mindful of touching door handles, menus in restaurants, things you would have NEVER thought about before cancer/COVID. At home I try to keep remotes, door knobs and light switches wiped down – cell phones are a biggie!!! We also wear gloves when pumping gas.”
Pricilla: “Always have a big bottle of sanitizer on hand and a pack of Huggies wipes because the material is way better than other wipes. If you are in public restaurants with your family squeeze the sanitizer on the wipes and wipe down the tables, chairs, booster seat, etc. Let it dry for five seconds before sitting. I do this all the time with my family.”
It is important to monitor your health daily. Be alert for symptoms. Watch for fever, cough, or other symptoms of the flu or the virus. Follow CDC guidance if symptoms develop.