Beloved Community,
I know the past few weeks have been a time of increasing fear and uncertainty as we have growing cases of novel coronavirus, COVID-19 here in the US. My thoughts go to the families of the two confirmed deaths in King County this past week, as well as to all of those suffering with illness or fear right now. I would like to take this moment to share some information that many of you will already know, but some may not, and hopefully add some encouragement.
Please continue to wash your hands. That’s been important since the start of the the flu season, it’s still the most important thing you can do. Often, with soap, for 20 seconds. Sing happy birthday to yourself twice, or any song that makes you happy. If soap is not available, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer is acceptable.
Cover sneezes and coughs. Avoid touching your face. Stay home when ill. This is so very important to stop the spread of not only this new virus but also influenza.
So far, what the scientific and public health community knows about this virus is that it is transmitted similarly to influenza, but we still have much to learn. I realize that this uncertainty adds to everyone’s anxiety and fear. Let’s stick to what we know, focus on the science, and prepare calmly. And wash our hands.
The CDC is reminding us to take the advice of FEMA, and have 2 weeks of supplies on hand, if that is possible. Food supplies, medications, pet supplies, and sundries. This is good advice at all times, for many reasons; earthquakes, fires, natural disasters of all sorts, not just a public health concern.
We may, in the future, be directed by the public health department to practice “social distancing” and that will mean that schools close, events are cancelled, and other gatherings will not happen, but we are not at that point yet.
Get your information from reputable sources. The Washington Department of Public Health has established a hotline for information regarding COVID-19, along with a special portion of their website dedication to information. The CDC, WHO, and Kitsap Public Health Department also have reputable information that is updated regularly.
If you have symptoms such as a fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, and are concerned you might need to be triaged for COVID-19, call your provider or urgent care *first* before you go to their office, to ensure they are prepped and ready to triage you appropriately.
I also want to acknowledge that this time can be particularly triggering for those of our fellowship who live with anxiety or germophobia. I honor your struggle, and recognize that this time is particularly hard for you.
I am sharing several links and a hotline below, as well as a resource for how to talk about COVID-19 with kids.
Washington Department of Public Health
What Kids Want to Know about Coronavirus
The Washington Department of Public Health COVID-19 hotline is 1-800-525-0127 then press #.
I send love and comfort to all of you, I’m available by phone, email or text.
Jennifer Ingalls, RN
nurse@kuuf.org