Covid-19 basics (Archive)

More info at:
https://www.vaccines.gov (this is not a complete lists there are more places available)
https://mn.gov/covid19/
https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/index.html Vaccine connector https://vaccineconnector.mn.gov https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019 and additional sources

  • keep drinking water fountains and other water fixtures in proper working order (many places this is building code, except outside lines that might freeze except outside lines that might freeze that are drained out- if they have been not used for a while they may need to be flushed by keeping water running -- it is abuse to deny people water
  • Wash hands frequently with soap and water
  • Keep at least 6 to 12 foot distance from other people when possible. wearing masks is not a substitute for this.
  • Stay at home when sick(not meaning stuck there inside but distancing from others, doing what is neccessary)
  • avoid unnecessary travel and avoid large groups
  • cover your cough/sneeze - wash hands
  • keep drinking water fountains in working order
  • Don't touch your face, since that moves germs in your hands go to your face
  • masks recommended for those not vaccinated. Face covering is required in some localities, and some businesses in public indoor settings and close settings outside .
  • Face and nose coverings can stop spread both ways. The more layers and better fit the better the protection for you and others. Make sure it is breathable. When fully vaccinated face coverings are less needed according to CDC. For those vaccinated they are still recommended for crowded places, hospitals, and public transport.
  • Minnesota Department of Health face covering requirements and recommendations
  • This is highly recommended and required This is suggested since some since some people may not have symptoms and can still spread. Wear protective gear (PPE) when necessary including masks and gloves
  • people with breathing trouble, or other health problems caused by wearing it, may choose one that works better, try a suitable substitute such a face shield and/or additional distancing. Masks not recommended for people younger than 2 years old or when sleeping.
  • If wearing cloth masks be sure to keep it clean/laundered to be reused as germs are likely to build up on it . N95 masks should not be reused
  • Medical Problems/needs: When possible call first or use telemedicine/ online visits when being treated for anything that isn't an emergency/urgent
  • Do whatever you can distanced from others online- classes, work, etc.
  • Remember basic things to stay healthy-
    • Stay hydrated - drinking enough water
    • eat healthy foods
    • get plenty of rest/sleep
    • get exercise and fresh air
    • exercising every day -- walking, running, or biking can help build lung capacity
    • Don't be sedentary. Sitting or laying in place too long can cause blood clots. Most people have stopped sitting in cars or planes so this solves one problem. Avoid sitting too long doing distance learning, telecommuting, watching tv and avoid laying too long recovering from an illness. Blood clots are associated with people ill from the coronavirus.
    • avoid drinking alcohol since this will make you dehydrated and make it harder for your body to fight off infections
    • avoid smoking and avoid vaping since it will make you and others more susceptible to getting ill.
    • good oral hygiene- brushing teeth and flossing and rinsing
    • stay up to date with (all necessary(MMR for children,tetinus,influenza,etc)) vaccinations for other illnesses and wellness checks including for children. Also keep up to date with checkups and (all necessary) vaccinations for pets and animals

      Update: all 5 and older in USA are eligible for vaccine and boosters are recommended for adults

      MN vaccine fonder
      https://mn.gov/covid19/vaccine/find-vaccine/index.jsp

    • Keep things clean and sanitary -clean surfaces, wash dishes, rinse and take out recycling, take out garbage (This does NOT mean leaving big items that you have been waiting to get rid of at the curb), wash clothes, shower/bathe(this is not a substitute for frequent hand washing)

More information at:
https://mn.gov/covid19/
https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/index.html
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html
https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019
originally published March 30 2020. Updated May 14 2021
This information is checked over with sources above as well as other sources. the author Nathan Steffenson runs this web site, is a licensed substitute teacher, Certified Interscholastic Coach and has a Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science/Information systems.