Safely Caring For Loved Ones

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

According to the CDC most people who get sick with COVID-19 will have only mild illness and may decide to recover at home. Care at home can help stop the spread of COVID-19 and help protect people who are at risk for getting seriously ill from COVID-19.

Here are steps to follow to help car for your loved ones and to remain safe. 

Provide symptom treatment

• Make sure the sick person drinks a lot of fluids to stay hydrated and rests at home.
• Over-the-counter medicines may help with symptoms.
• For most people, symptoms last a few days and get better after a week.

Prevent the spread of germs when caring for someone who is sick

• Have the person stay in one room, away from other people, including yourself, as much as possible.
  • If possible, have them use a separate bathroom.
  • Avoid sharing personal household items, like dishes, towels, and bedding
  • Have them wear a cloth face covering (that covers their nose and mouth) when they are around people, including you.
  • It the sick person can’t wear a cloth face covering, you should wear one while in the same room with them.
  • If the sick person needs to be around others (within the home, in a vehicle, or doctor’s office), they should wear a cloth face covering that covers their mouth and nose.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after interacting with the sick person. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Every day, clean all surfaces that are touched often, like counters, tabletops, and doorknobs
  • Use household cleaning sprays or wipes according to the label instructions.
• Wash laundry thoroughly.
  • If laundry is soiled, wear disposable gloves and keep the soiled items away from your body while laundering. Wash your hands immediately after removing gloves.
• Avoid having any unnecessary visitors.
• For any additional questions about their care, contact their healthcare provider or state or local health department.

For more information on COVID-19 and how best to improve your mental wellbeing during these uncertain times visit the Centers for Disease Control  website. 

All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!