Let’s work together to keep our neighbors safe from COVID-19

By Everyone’s biggest concern right now is how to avoid contracting COVID-19, so let’s address some key preventative measures to keep ourselves safe and healthy.

It is believed that this disease is mainly spread from person to person, so the best defense is maintaining a safe distance from other people. COVID-19 mainly spreads through the air, especially when another person coughs or sneezes, so it is recommended that you maintain a six-foot distance from other people when you are in a public space (i.e. buying groceries, going to the pharmacy, etc.).

It is also extremely important to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds after being in public spaces, blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not available, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer should be used. All care should be taken to avoid touching your face.

Frequently-used household items, such as doorknobs, counters, appliances, desks, and phones, should be wiped down daily, if not more often. What can be used to effectively disinfect? Options include diluted household bleach solutions (one-third cup of bleach per gallon of water), alcohol solutions (at least 70 percent alcohol), and most household disinfectants registered by the federal Environmental Protection Agency.

According to Governor Andrew Cuomo’s “New York State on Pause” executive order, all nonessential gatherings of individuals of any size for any reason have been temporarily banned. When it is necessary to go out in public, individuals should avoid crowds and maintain a minimum six-foot distance from one another.

The best way we can work together to prevent the spread of this disease is to practice social distancing by staying at home as much as possible, especially since New York State currently has such a high rate of COVID-19 cases. Even if you are feeling well, it is possible that you could still be carrying the disease and inadvertently be putting others at risk by going out. 

Additionally, “Matilda’s Law,” named for the governor’s mother, is currently in effect in New York State. The purpose of these guidelines is to protect residents who are older than 70 and individuals with otherwise compromised immune systems (i.e. cancer patients, transplant patients, individuals with HIV/AIDs, etc.).

In addition to the guidelines recommended for everyone, these individuals are instructed to remain indoors at home, except for going outside for solitary exercise. They should wear a mask in the company of others and any visitors should take their temperature before they enter their home.

One last note, although solitary outdoor exercise is still encouraged to stay healthy and fit, please avoid contact sports, playgrounds, basketball courts, etc. to help prevent the virus’s spread. We are all in this together; let’s work together to keep our loved ones and neighbors safe.

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For over 25 years Community Caregivers has helped those in local communities who may require a little assistance while they remain in their homes and live independently with dignity. Through a network of dedicated staff and volunteers, clients receive reassurance calls, friendly visits, help with transportation, shopping, and light chores. Caregivers are also provided support through education and respite visits. Community Caregivers is always seeking new volunteers and clients. For more information, visit www.communitycaregivers.org or call 518-456-2898.

Editor’s note: Caroline Weiss is a second-year Medical student at Albany Medical College.