Coronavirus: What should I do?

Don't panic now that a pandemic and national emergency have been declared. Common sense responses can help prevent the coronavirus from spreading more rapidly.

March 13, 2020 - 4:58 PM

The shelves at Iola’s Walmart were stripped of all toilet paper Thursday afternoon, even with requests to limit purchases.

— Stay calm. Pay attention to the latest updates from trusted news media sources and official social media accounts like governments, law enforcement, hospitals and school districts.

— If you have flu-like symptoms, stay home and call your physician. If a visit to the hospital is absolutely necessary, wait in your vehicle in the parking lot, call the hospital and follow directions from health care professionals.

— Use good hygiene practices. Wash your hands. Avoid touching your face (mouth, nose, eyes). Cover coughs and sneezes. Disinfect surfaces like doorknobs, tables, desks, etc.

— Use “social distancing” techniques. Avoid large crowds and limit social activities. If a gathering is necessary, conduct it in an outdoor space or an open, well-ventilated space. Avoid shaking hands. Avoid conducting business during peak times. Conduct transactions online or by phone when possible.

— If a family member is sick, have only one person care for them. Keep them in their own room with the door closed as much as possible. Provide additional protections or more intensive care for household members over age 65 or with underlying conditions.