Coronavirus: Just the Facts by Hearst Midwest

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CORONAVIRUS Just the Facts

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ALISSA ECKERT, MS, DAN HIGGINS, MAMS/CDC

SATURDAY, MARCH 28, 2020

Coronavirus: Just the facts

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What does the governor's stay-at-home order mean to you? The Huron Daily Tribune compiled the following FAQ list to help readers understand Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's executive order issued Monday. Q: How does this affect food delivery services? Grocery delivery services? A: Food delivery services, including grocery delivery, are considered essential and will continue. Gov. Whitmer encourages people to use delivery services where they are available. However, the order allows people to leave their homes to shop for groceries or to pick up takeout from restaurants. Q: Will banks still be open? A: Yes. Banks and credit unions will continue to operate. Q: How does this affect government services? Will we still have trash pickup? A: The following services will still be provided: Public transit, trash pick-up and disposal, activities necessary to manage and oversee elections, and the maintenance of safe and sanitary public parks so as to allow for outdoor recreation. Q: Does this affect mail delivery? A: Mail will still be delivered, and residents are asked to keep six feet distance away from mail carriers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, along with the World Health Organization, have reported the coronavirus cannot travel through the mail. Q: Gas stations, pharmacies and retail stores will remain open, correct? A: Yes. People will still be able to leave their homes to purchase groceries, take-out food, gasoline, medication and medical supplies. “Do not panic, do not hoard,” Whitmer said. Q: Are liquor stores allowed to remain open? A: Yes. Liquor stores are considered essential and are exempt from the order. Q: Are marijuana dispensaries allowed to remain open? A: Yes. Licensed provisioning centers and adult-use retailers may provide home delivery services, as well as curbside pick-up. In-store

In a pool photo provided by the Michigan Office of the Governor, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer tells Michigan residents to stay at home, in her most sweeping order of the coronavirus crisis, Monday, March 23, 2020 in Lansing, Mich. The governor warned that a million people could need hospital beds if they keep mixing with each other and spreading the illness. Whitmer talked about dire results akin to those seen in Italy if people don't follow her order. (Julia Pickett/Michigan Office of the Governor via AP, Pool) purchases will be prohibited. Q: Can I go for a walk or a run? A: Yes. Individuals may leave their home to engage in outdoor activity, including walking, hiking running, cycling or any other recreational activity, while remaining at least six feet away from people outside the individual’s household. Q: Will doctors’ offices and hospitals remain open? A: Yes. Any business that does work to protect or sustain life will remain open. Q: Will my veterinarian still be open? A: Yes. The order allows for people to leave their homes in order to care for pets. Q: Are factories required to close? A: Businesses operating in the

following fields will be allowed to continue: chemical supply chains and safety, critical manufacturing, hazardous materials, and defense industrial base. Q: How does this affect volunteer opportunities? A: Volunteers and workers can continue operations that provide food, shelter and other necessities of life. Q: Is public transportation still allowed? A: Yes. The order allows government operations including public transit, trash pick-up and disposal, activities necessary to manage and oversee elections, and the maintenance of safe and sanitary public parks to continue. Q: Can I care for my mother who

lives away from me? A: Yes. The order allows individuals to leave their homes to care for a family member or a family member’s pet in another household, to care for minors, dependents, the elderly, persons with disabilities, or other vulnerable persons and to visit an individual under the care of a health care facility, residential care facility, or congregate care facility. Q: Can I go to the laundromat? A: Yes. Critical infrastructure includes businesses that provide food, shelter, and other necessities of life. Q: What happens if someone violates the order? A: Consistent with MCL 10.33 and MCL 30.405(3), a willful violation of this order is a misdemeanor.

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Coronavirus: Just the facts

SATURDAY, MARCH 28, 2020

The COVID-19 outbreak is a perfect time for a breather BY SARA EISINGER sara.eisinger@hearstnp.com

boundaries. 7. Enjoy that hobby you once loved HURON COUNTY — ProIn a fast-paced society, tection against the spread of there is hardly time to do the coronavirus has called for things you love. Pick up the unforeseen state and federal paintbrush and paint, or take government action, generatpictures with the brand new ing temporary social distancCanon that’s been sitting on ing. It is important to rememyour dresser since last Christber that normalcy can still be mas. The neat thing about somewhat maintained. taking up hobbies is that they Community events have function as coping mechabeen postponed and Sunday nisms. It might be just what church services canceled. you need to get by. Kids are not in school and 8. Cook meals as a family many parents are working or order takeout from home. Some are even Food is a great way to bring out of work, like the waitress people together. Keep in at your favorite dining estabmind that local restaurants lishment. No one knows what are still serving takeout and will happen next. Many are delivering. You can still order feeling anxious and stressed, pizza or a burger from your while others are beginning to favorite joint. Remember, get a little stir crazy. these businesses are sufWhat if you could still be fering and your orders will safe, while making the best keep them in business. As an out of a bad situation and alternative, grocery stores are enjoying some much-needed “As stress and frustrations build, simple activities like dropping a line can provide relief as worries drift open. Find that recipe you’ve alone time with those close? been waiting to try and buy away.” (Sara Eisinger/Huron Daily Tribune) 1. Engage in conversations the ingredients needed. If it’s that share positive memories the inaccurate information er and research. You could night has been long overdue. possible, get others involved and stories on social media. During times even enroll in online courses. YouTube also has a variety and create some social time. Not everything is dark and of crisis, people often feel the Universities are offering just of videos to watch, including Afterwards, enjoy! gloom. You and your loved need to talk. Not all talk is about any class you could some artists sharing concerts. According to the Centers ones are likely closer than worth listening to. Rumors imagine right from your Many are even live streaming for Disease Control and ever at this point. Create pos- have no substance and they desktop. Learning is lifelong concerts. Willie Nelson had Prevention, the virus is itive vibes and spread them often cause more harm than and that excuse about not a live stream on Thursday spreading primarily from with those around you. Do so good. having the time likely just night. Local churches have person-to-person. by flipping through mom’s 3. Soul search and reboot flew out the window. Now even started to live stream The agency recommends old photo album or scrolling There has never been a is a great time to help chilservices. Are you an enterstaying at least six feet away through the pictures saved better time to sit back in the dren learn. School may be tainer? What is stopping you from others, especially those on your laptop. Some upbeat quiet and think about life. canceled, but students are from posting videos of your coughing or sneezing. Be sure and heartfelt conversations What are you doing? Are you swamped with homework. own? to wash your hands frequentmay arise, as there are cerwho you want to be? Are you Local educators would love 6. Go outside ly, seek medical treatment tainly attached stories to tell. where you want to be? Living your help as a tutor or menThe same goes with any when sick, use face masks It is the perfect time to share in such a busy society, people tor. viral infection, dress approproperly and disinfect all memories with those close to tend to forget that it is abso5. Entertainment priately for weather condisurfaces. your heart. lutely vital to take time to COVID-19 is not a license tions and stay warm. It is Strategies to keep you and 2. Stay informed with accu- gain introspective. When this for kids to play Fortnite all all right to go outside for a your family safe can be found rate information and steer is all said and done, maybe day and night. However, it walk or take the kids out to at www.michigan.gov/coroclear of negativity you will feel more recharged does help to pass time by. the park. There are plenty navirus. Obtain information from than ever before. Maybe sit down with the of state parks and walking The local health departthe Centers for Disease Con4. Get educated or teach family and learn how to play trails around the county to ment also has a hotline that trol and Prevention, World What is that one thing their favorite games. You enjoy, like the Bad Axe Walk- can be called 24/7 for more Health Organization and you have always wanted to could pick up a new hobby. ing Trail or Port Crescent information on COVID-19 Michigan Department of learn about? While alone at Aside from the PS4 and Xbox State Park. Just be sure to and what we can do to preHealth and Human Services. home or after the kids go to One, pull out your favorite remain conscientious of those pare ourselves and communiThere is no need to read all sleep, hop on the computmovie. Maybe a family movie around you and maintain safe ty at 989-269-9722.

SATURDAY, MARCH 28, 2020

Coronavirus: Just the facts

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Get Outside

While the state has issued a stay-at-home order for the purpose of social distancing, it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t prevent you from taking the opportunity to get outside and enjoy the sights and sounds of spring. (Sara Eisinger/Huron Daily Tribune)

Coronavirus: Just the facts

SATURDAY, MARCH 28, 2020

Coronavirus: Just the facts

SATURDAY, MARCH 28, 2020

michigansthumb.com

Coronavirus: Just the facts

SATURDAY, MARCH 28, 2020

Coronavirus spreads across the state

From the outside it was easy to look past the spread of the coronavirus across the world and nation until it was knocking on the proverbial door of residents. However, since March 11 it has been undeniably changing the way of life in the state and the Upper Thumb. March 11

operations and offer students coronavirus breakfast and lunch options in Chief Judge David B. Her State announces two numerous ways. Some schools rington made the decision to presumptive-positive provided meal kids, while othclose all aspects of the Huron coronavirus cases ers offered curbside food pickCounty court system until April While the state saw its first up. 6, as a preventative measure to two positive coronavirus cases, Michigan coronavirus Tribune temporarily combat the spread of the coroGov. Gretchen Whitmer urged cases hit 25 as restrictions closes office to public in navirus. The closure included businesses, schools, universitighten response to coronavirus all county courts, as well as ties and other organizations Michigan recorded 25 cases concerns the Friend of the Court and to use their best judgement of COVID-19, and with the The Huron Daily Tribune Juvenile office. Jury panels for about what steps to take to announcement Gov. Gretchen made the decision to close its the month of March were also keep people safe. In response, Whitmer banned all gatherings office to the public amid the dismissed. colleges and universities began of more than 250 people. Whitcoronavirus pandemic. Huron County buildings announcing the cancelation of mer’s order excluded industrial President Trump declares close to the public commencement ceremonies, work, pass transit and the purvirus emergency, House Following a special meeting, the closure of schools, switchchase of consumer goods. passes aide package the Huron County Board of ing instead to online learning. Pres. Trump limits travel President Donald Trump Commissioners announced NBA suspends season due from Europe to US declared the coronavirus panthat the county buildings will to coronavirus Taking dramatic action, demic a national emergency, be closed to prevent possible The NBA was just one of President Donald Trump and in doing so freed up money spread of COVID-19. All counmany national sporting orgaannounced he was sharply and resources to combat the ty-owned buildings, including nizations to suspend its season restricting passenger travel outbreak. Pres. Trump also the Huron County Building, following the growing spread from 26 European nations to threw his support behind an Courthouse, and Michigan of the coronavirus across the the U.S. and moving to ease aid package in Congress that State University Extension, country. the economic cost of a viral would provide direct relief would close Tuesday, March pandemic that was roiling to Americans. The aid was 17 at 5 p.m. and will remain global financial markets and anticipated to be as much as closed to public use until 8:30 Gov. Whitmer announces disrupting the daily lives of $50 billion for state and local a.m. on March 24. County statewide closure of all Americans, according to the governments to respond to the employees were still expected K-12 schools until April 5 Associated Press. crisis. to show up to work and contin At 11 p.m. the governor ue working as usual. If the sitordered the closure of all K-12 uation in the county worsened, school buildings — public, State sets up coronavirus Local theaters close due to commissioner Chairman Sami private and boarding — starthotline to address executive order Khoury said he would make the ing March 16 and lasting until questions Gov. Gretchen Whitmer decision to postpone a schedSunday, April 5 in an effort to The Michigan Department signed an executive order that uled meeting for March 24. slow the spread of the coronaof Health and Human Services limited the number of places Huron County Health virus. Whitmer said it was a announced it would establish people could gather. This order Department reports no decision she didn’t take lightly a statewide hotline to respond included theaters, cinemas, known local cases of and many schools were already to health-related questions and outdoor and indoor perforcoronavirus taking steps themselves. about the coronavirus. The mance venues. Local theaters Despite rumors circulating “This we feel is a necessary staff couldn’t provide clinical and groups subject to following online, the Huron County step to protect kids, and teachadvice or a diagnosis through the order include the Bad Axe Health Department reported ers and families and our overall the hotline, but would answer Theatre, the Harbor Beach March 17 that there were no public health," Whitmer said in health related questions and Theatre, The Thumb Area known local cases of COVIDa press conference. "I believe direct residents to health proCommunity Theatre, and the 19. According to the health school employees should conviders. Port Austin Community Playdepartment, as soon as it tinue to get paid as though ers. The governor also banned was aware of a known Huron schools are still in session.” dining out and extended jobCounty case, it would notify the MHSAA suspends winter Thumb area schools less benefits to those displaced public through numerous plactournaments indefinitely providing lunches to because of the pandemic. es, including the Tribune and While Ubly, Bad Axe and students, despite closure the department’s website and Cass City basketball teams With the sudden closure Facebook page. were lined up to continue of Michigan schools, schools Huron County courts close their season and hopefully win in the Upper Thumb decidas a precautionary meastate titles, the Michigan High ed to continue food service sure against Local hospitals taking School Athletic Association announced the suspension of all winter tournaments amid the coronavirus outbreak.

March 13

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March 14

March 16

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March 18

preventative measures against coronavirus Huron County’s three hospitals were taking preventative measures to slow the spread of COVID-19. The hospitals began limiting traffic coming to the facilities to ensure safety for the patients. They also began operating under restricted visitation hours and suggested that visitation be conducted via telephone or video conference. Michigan sees first coronavirus death A man in his 50s died in a Detroit-area hospital after testing positive for the coronavirus. The death was the state’s first since the outbreak of the coronavirus. According to officials at Beaumont Health, the man had other underlying health conditions. The U.S. and Canada also agreed to temporarily close its shared borders to nonessential travel, a move that excludes trucks carrying goods between the countries.

March 19

Statewide virus cases climb to 334, including three deaths State officials signed off on $20 million in grants and loans to more than 1,000 small businesses while the statewide confirmed virus cases climbed to 334 individuals and claimed three lives. According to the Associated Press, more than 117,000 businesses had been impacted by the governor’s order to limit crowds and gathering spots. Live streaming offered by area churches In an effort to keep parishioners safe and honor the Governor’s wishes of social distancing, many churches in the Upper Thumb were offering live streaming of church

services, or recorded services for the time being. While the move was new for some congregations, others such as Elkton Missionary Church had already been offering remote church services. Calvary Baptist Church of Port Austin not only offered services remotely, but also was reaching out to members by phone to make sure they were safe. Some businesses try to weather the storm A few local hair salons and tanning salons announced an increase cleaning and disinfecting of their businesses, but planned to remain open for the time being. Cutting Connection Styling Salon, shop owner Pauline Voelker is making efforts to keep her business as safe for as many people for as long as she can. “We are sanitizing, sanitizing, sanitizing,” Voelker said. “We have been keeping clients apart from each other. It’s definitely slowed down, and it will definitely affect people, absolutely.” Following recommendations from medical professionals, Cutting Connection Styling Salon is practicing social distancing as best it can in addition to maintaining a high standard of cleanliness for its customers. However, Voelker also said that she expected the salons would shut down sooner, rather than later because of increased pressure from the state.

March 20

Local grocers step up during time of need Grocery stores in the Upper Thumb and elsewhere around the state changed hours of operation to provide a time for elderly and high-risk individuals to shop without crowds. Caseville Family Market Manager Zach Eng

strom said the idea came after he brainstormed for ways to help out. The change actually resulted in longer hours of operation for Caseville Family Market, which began opening it’s doors one hour earlier. “One thing we did change to better serve our community is Wednesday we are opening one hour early, from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m., to serve our senior citizens,” Engstrom said. “That is dedicated to them, so they have a safer environment to shop in. It’s a little less people, less contact. We are happy to be able to provide that hour. Hopefully some of our senior citizens take advantage.” Area food pantries begin offering curbside service As a result of the coronavirus and the governor’s orders for social distancing, area food pantries such as the Caseville Community Food Pantry began offering curbside service. In addition to the curbside service, many food pantries began distributing food more frequently as a result of the shut-in. The Huron County Community Foundation provides relief amid pandemic In response the coronavirus pandemic, the Huron County Community Foundation stepped up to provide emergency assistance to local organizations. The foundation offered grants to local organizations to be used for operational costs, which typically is not qualified in grants. The foundation also announced it would keep the applications brief and streamline the distribution. Area hospitals band together to answer community questions Six leading medical experts from the Upper Thumb gath-

ered to discuss the ever-evolving and wide-ranging impact of the coronavirus. The conference was scheduled to inform the community, and distribute accurate and factual information to the communities amid a growing amount of false information and rumors. Representatives from McLaren Thumb Region, Scheurer Health and Harbor Beach Community Hospital offered residents ways to remain safe, mitigate the spread of the virus and even explained the origins of the virus. Upper Thumb’s first positive case The Tuscola County Health Department announced the Upper Thumb’s first positive test of the coronavirus. An 88-year-old man with no history of travel tested positive for COVID-19. The health department announced it was working to identify all individuals who had contact with the man, so they could be assessed for symptoms and monitored appropriately. However, the health department did not release any particulars regarding the man’s identity nor location, adding that the department was not naming low-risk exposure locations. North American automakers stop operations Automakers in the United States announced they would be stopping operations amid the growing concerns over spreading the coronavirus. The companies did not say when they expected to resume operations, but instead said they would have to evaluate the spread before reopening. The Associated Press reported the closure of Detroit’s big three would idle approximately 150,000 workers, who would likely receive sup-

plemental pay in addition to state unemployment benefits.

March 22

Gov. Whitmer orders closure of non-essential personal care services, state infection numbers rise With the state infection numbers approaching 800 individuals, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed an executive order that closed non-essential personal care services through April 13. These services included nail and hair salons, tattoo and piercing shops, spas, and other services that required individuals be within 6 feet of one and other. Gov. Whitmer also said the federal government needed to provide not only more face masks and test kits, but also clear guidance on how to fight the spread. Later in the day, the state released revised reports that the total cases rose to 1,035 and nine dead.

March 23

Gov. Whitmer issues stay-home-stay-safe order While asking residents not to panic, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer issued a “stay-homestay-safe order” effectively closing all nonessential businesses in the state. This came after the total number of COVID-19 positive cases rose to 1,232 and at least 15 people dead from the virus. “This disease can’t spread person to person if we’re not out there. ... Too many people are still out and about unnecessarily so we must do more,” Whitmer said. Whitmer’s order takes effect at 12:01 a.m. March 24 and will remain in place until April 13, extending the preexisting shutdowns an additional week.

SATURDAY, MARCH 28, 2020

| DISEASE CORONAVIRUS: JUST THEJust FACTS Coronavirus: the facts BASICS

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What Is Coronavirus? Coronavirus (COVID19) is the disease caused by the new coronavirus that emerged in China in December 2019. It can be spread from person to person and is diagnosed with a laboratory test. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, diagnosis may be difficult with only a physical exam because mild cases of COVID-19 may appear similar to the flu or a bad cold. There is no coronavirus vaccine yet. Prevention involves frequent hand-washing, coughing into the bend of your elbow and staying home when you are sick. Here are a few frequently asked questions to help you better understand COVID-19, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

WHY IS THE DISEASE CALLED CORONAVIRUS AND COVID-19?

On Feb. 11, 2020 the World Health Organization announced an official name for the disease. The name of this disease is coronavirus disease 2019, abbreviated as COVID-19. In COVID-19, ‘CO’ stands for ‘corona,’ ‘VI’ for ‘virus,’ and ‘D’ for disease. Formerly, this disease was

ALISSA ECKERT, MS, DAN HIGGINS, MAMS/CDC

referred to as “2019 novel coronavirus” or “2019-nCoV.”

COVID-19 seems to be spreading easily in the community and in some affected HOW DOES THE geographic areas. This means people have been infected VIRUS SPREAD? This virus was first detected with the virus in an area, in Wuhan City, Hubei including some who are not Province, China. The first sure how or where they infections were linked to a became infected. live animal market, according to the CDC, but the virus is WHO IS AT THE HIGHEST now spreading from person to RISK FOR CONTRACTING person. COVID-19? The virus that causes Early information out of

China shows that some people are at higher risk of getting very sick from this illness, including older adults, according to the CDC. People who have serious chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes and lung disease also are at higher risk.

IS THIS CORONAVIRUS DIFFERENT FROM SARS?

SARS stands for severe acute respiratory syndrome.

In 2003, an outbreak of SARS started in China and spread to other countries before ending in 2004. The virus that causes COVID-19 is similar to the one that caused the 2003 SARS outbreak: Both are types of coronaviruses. Much is still unknown, but the CDC reports that COVID-19 seems to spread faster than the 2003 SARS and also may cause less severe illness.

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| DISEASE BASICS CORONAVIRUS: JUST THEJust FACTS Coronavirus: the facts

SATURDAY, MARCH 28, 2020

Symptoms and Testing The symptoms of COVID-19 are similar to the flu or a severe cold. If you think you have been exposed to the virus through contact with someone else who has been affected, you should call your health care provider immediately for medical advice. Emergency warning signs and serious symptoms include: • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest. • New confusion or inability to arouse. • Bluish lips or face. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that this list is not all-inclusive and urges Americans to consult their medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning.

WHEN TESTING IS NECESSARY

If you are a close contact of someone with COVID-19 or you live in a community where there is ongoing spread of COVID-19 and develop symptoms of COVID-19, call your health care provider and tell them about your symptoms and your exposure. They will decide whether you need to be tested.

CDC

People who are mildly ill may be able to isolate and care for themselves at home. Your local medical professionals will be able to consider your case and deliver sound advice.

WHAT IF YOU’RE SICK?

The CDC makes the following recommendations to those feeling sick or afflicted with a mild case of COVID-19:

Stay home. People who are mildly ill with COVID-19 are able to isolate at home during their illness. You should restrict activities outside your home, except for getting medical care. Avoid public areas. Do not go to work, school or public areas. Avoid public transportation. Avoid using public transportation, ride-sharing or taxis.

CONTACTING YOUR DOCTORS

adults and people who have severe underlying chronic People at higher risk for seri- medical conditions like heart ous illness from COVID-19 or lung disease or diabetes should contact their health care seem to be at higher risk for provider early, even if their illdeveloping more serious comness is mild. This can help doc- plications from COVID-19. tors make more informed deciIf you are very sick, get medisions, like whether or not you cal attention immediately. If should be hospitalized or if you you develop emergency warnshould be tested for the virus. ing signs for COVID-19, get The CDC reports that older medical attention immediately.

SATURDAY, MARCH 28, 2020

| WORLDWIDE IMPACTS CORONAVIRUS: JUST THE FACTS Coronavirus: Just the facts

Map of the COVID-19 outbreak as of March 13, 2020.

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ONS

E CO

TIV REA

Traveling During the Outbreak Travel has been banned in multiple countries affected by COVID-19. People throughout the United States have seen major delays in domestic travel, with airlines cutting back on the number of flights.

BE SMART

One of the first things you should ask yourself is whether COVID-19 has been spreading where you’re going. If the answer is yes, you may be at higher risk of exposure if you travel there. Your risk of exposure to respiratory viruses like COVID-19 may increase in crowded settings, which is why all major leagues in professional sports have delayed or suspended their seasons. This is especially true for particularly closed-in settings with little air circulation if there are people in the If you still need to travel for work or crowd who are sick. family reasons, there are many things Similarly, strong consideration to consider before buying a plane ticket should be given to avoiding travel if or loading up your car for a road trip.

COVID-19 is spreading where you live. You should avoid the risk of passing COVID-19 to others during travel, particularly if you will be in close contact with older adults or people with severe chronic health conditions.

WHAT’S YOUR RISK LEVEL?

Older adults and people of any age with serious chronic medical conditions, such as heart disease, lung disease or diabetes, are at a higher risk of contracting COVID-19. The CDC recommends that travelers at higher risk for COVID-19 complications avoid all cruise travel and nonessential air travel.

WHAT IF YOU’RE EXPOSED?

If you have close contact with someone with COVID-19 during travel, you may be asked to stay home to self-monitor and avoid contact with others for up to 14 days after travel. If you become sick with COVID-19, you may be unable to go to work or school until you’re considered noninfectious. Consider these possible factors when traveling, as being exposed to the virus can have a big impact on your daily life or halt your professional capabilities. Depending on your unique circumstances, you should be open to delaying or canceling your plans.

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| FAMILIES CORONAVIRUS: JUST Just THE FACTS Coronavirus: the facts

SATURDAY, MARCH 28, 2020

Helping Children Cope

It is very important to remember that children look to adults for how to react during stressful times. With the COVID-19 virus gaining international media attention, information about the pandemic is everywhere. If parents seem overwhelmed with the situation, children will naturally react in the same way. As parents, teachers and other adults in the lives of children, it’s up to us to reassure and educate them in the most honest, compassionate way possible.

TIPS ON INTERACTING WITH CHILDREN

Here are some tips on talking about COVID-19 with your children or students, according to the National Association of School Psychologists. • Remain calm and reassuring. • Make yourself available. • Avoid excessive blaming. • Be aware of their exposure to the news. • Maintain a normal routine, if possible. • Be honest and accurate.

HANDLING CHILDREN’S ANXIETY

What you say and do about

COVID-19 can either increase or decrease your children’s anxiety levels related to the virus and the news they are hearing. Remind them that you and the adults at their school or daycare are there to keep them safe and healthy. Always let your children talk about their feelings in a safe way. This will help them get things into the open and allow for opportunities for you to educate them on

immediately, or sneeze or cough into the bend of the MODEL BASIC HYGIENE elbow. The NASP recommends you • Do not share food or teaching children the follow- drinks. ing hygiene measures: • Practice giving fist or • Wash hands multiple elbow bumps instead of times a day for at least 20 sec- handshakes. onds (the time it takes to sing Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star CARRY ON WITH slowly). NORMAL LIFE • Cover mouths with tissue Encourage your child to eat when sneezing or coughing a balanced diet, get enough and throw away the tissue sleep and exercise regularly. what’s going on.

Not only will this give them comfort during disruptions, but it will help their immune system stay strong. Going along with this guidance, you should also take the time to talk with your children. Don’t go out of your way to avoid conversations related to COVID-19. If they have questions, be ready to give them educated answers and advice on dealing with any inquiries they may have.

SATURDAY, MARCH 28, 2020

Coronavirus: Just the facts

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Hills & Dales is here for you. Please call ahead if you are experiencing symptoms or think you have been exposed to COVID-19. For the most up to date info about what Hills & Dales is doing for COVID-19, please visit facebook.com/hillsanddalesgeneralhospital or hdghmi.org. Please call 989-872-2121 with questions.

4675 Hill St, Cass City