How to prepare for the Coronavirus Outbreak in the US

COVID-19 first death has been confirmed in Washington State

Now is not the time to panic but it is time to start your preparation. Better safe than sorry folks. The purpose of this article is to provide helpful tips and recommendations to be proactive and avoid getting the coronavirus. As always, this is not meant to provide medical advice. If you are sick, please call your doctor. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please dial 911.

The best way NOT to get sick is to stay home and avoid human contact.

The coronavirus is confirmed to be human-to-human transmission. For the time being, it is wise to stay far away from crowds and public places. Defnitely don't travel to countries where things are bad. Many big events and conferences have been cancelled.

If you must leave the house, here's how to Protect Yourself (and others)

1. Don't shake hands!

Use the Fist Bump.

Even better, try the Elbow Bump.

2. Wash your hands - lather and scrub for at least 20 seconds

Thoroughly washing your hands should be done regularly for about 2 Happy Birthday songs. Get into this habit with or without a pandemic!

Here's some hand soap on Amazon

Also a good idea to carry around Hand Sanitizer but remember that this is not a substitute for Soap to wash your hands. Only when it's the only option on the go.

3. Sanitize your Phone! most people forget that mobile devices are filthier than the toilet

Here's some Disinfecting Wipes on Amazon

4. Cough or Sneeze into a Tissue. If not, into your Elbow. Not your hands.

5. Face Mask offer some protection, especially if you are sick so the virus doesn't go airborne

The virus are small enough that it could leak through regular masks. Healthcare providers use N95 or higher masks and because they come in direct contact with sick patients. The biggest problem is not washing your hands then touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Wearing a mask would be useless if you end up with virus covered hands!

Here's some Medical Face Mask on Amazon

6. Quarantine yourself if you have symptoms like fever, cough, and difficulty breathing

Seek early medical advice by phone. Share your recent travels with healthcare professionals. Stay away from family and friends especially if you have just returned from high infected areas like China, South Korea, Iran, or Italy for at least 14 days.

Beware of misinformation and myths. This should be treated seriously but it is not the end of the world. Get updates from trusted sources like WHO and CDC to stay safe!