AFCC Family and Friends,
The World Health Organization has now classified the COVID-19 outbreak as a Pandemic-which means it has spread over multiple continents and as you know, it has already been diagnosed here in Alachua County.
In order to prevent an epidemic and to minimize its negative impact on our members, the Healthy Christian Ministry is sharing the following information on protecting yourselves as issued by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Most people who become infected experience mild illness and recover, but it can be more severe for others.
Take care of your health and protect others by doing the following:
1. WASH YOUR HANDS FREQUENTLY.
Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub (unless visibly soiled-then soap and water). Why? Washing your hands with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand rub kills viruses that may be on your hands.
2. Maintain social distancing. Maintain at least 3 feet distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.
Why? When someone coughs or sneezes they spray small liquid droplets from their nose or mouth which may contain virus. If you are too close, you can breathe in the droplets, including the COVID-19 virus if the person coughing has the disease. Wipe down all countertops, sinks, doorknobs, light switches, etc that may be contaminated with disinfecting cleaners (Lysol, Clorox, etc).
3. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Why? Hands touch many surfaces and can pick up viruses. Once contaminated, hands can transfer the virus to your eyes, nose or mouth. From there, the virus can enter your body and can make you sick. The same is true for gloves.
4. Practice respiratory hygiene. Cover your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then dispose of the used tissue immediately.
Why? Droplet spread virus. By following good respiratory hygiene you protect the people around you from viruses such as cold, flu and COVID-19.
5. If you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing-CALL YOUR DOCTOR and STAY HOME. Stay home if you don't feel well. If you have a fever, cough, and difficulty breathing-seek medical attention and call in advance. Follow the direction of the local health authority.
Why? National and local authorities will have the most up to date information on the situation in your area. Calling in advance will allow your health care provider to quickly direct to the right health facility. This will also protect you and help prevent spread of viruses and other infections.
6. Stay informed and follow advice given by your healthcare provider.
7. If you have any of the following conditions: Diabetes, Heart disease, Lung disease (COPD, asthma, chronic bronchitis) or are immunosuppressed or otherwise immunocompromised, please STAY HOME to avoid putting yourself at risk. You may listen to recorded services via http://www.abidingfaithcc.org/ and to Pastor Cowart's 7:30 am radio broadcast via https://www.soulnetwkdh.com/.
We are also recommending that you avoid large (>150 people) crowds, airplane/travel outside the USA at this time but leave that to your discretion.
9. If you are placed on quarantine or forced to self-quarantine, please notify Elder Stokes so that the Elders and Ministers will know how to pray for and support you during this time.
Stay hydrated, well-nourished, well-rested, and prayed up.
God bless you!