With the severity of how quickly the coronavirus spreads, it’s not only important to take measures to protect yourself, but also your loved ones. Creating a household plan of action can help to protect you and your family if an outbreak of COVID-19 happens in your community. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) answers questions on how to put this plan together and protect your family.
What should my household plan include?
- Talk with those who need to be included in your plan – spouse, children
- Plan for ways to care for those who are at a higher risk for serious complications, such as older adults or those with a chronic medical condition
- Gather emergency contact list of family members, friends, neighbors, health care providers, local public health department and other community resources
What steps can my family take to reduce the risk of getting COVID-19?
- Practice universal safety precautions every day, such as washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
- If soap and water is not readily available, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects (doorknobs, countertops, light switches)
- Cover your coughs and sneezes with tissue and wash your hands after
- Avoid close contact with other people, especially those who are sick
- Stay home if you are feeling sick
What should I do if someone in my house gets sick with COVID-19?
- If you develop emergency warning signs, get medical attention immediately
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Pain and pressure in chest
- Fatigue
- Bluish lips or face
- Have them use a separate bedroom and bathroom, avoid unnecessary contact
- Clean hands regularly
- Provide them with clean disposable facemasks
- Avoid sharing their personal items like utensils, food and drinks
- Clean the areas they are in regularly, like their bedroom and bathroom
What should di do if there is an outbreak in my community?
- Stay calm!
- Limit social contact as much as possible – only go out if needed for essential things such as food, going to medical doctors
- Stay informed about the outbreak – be aware of temporary school dismissals and business closures that may affect your household’s daily routine
- Continue to practice safety and preventative actions
- Stay in touch with family and friends by phone or email
Have more questions, visit the CDC’s FAQs for Individuals and Families.
