Dear Community Members,

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is very much top of mind right now and the situation is changing rapidly with new updates coming frequently from government and public health authorities. On March 12, Ohio Gov. DeWine banned organized gatherings of 100 people or more and announced that all public schools would go on extended spring break from March 16 through April 3. The City of Cincinnati – along with other local cities and counties – has declared a state of emergency, and health authorities are urging all of us to help slow the pace of the virus.

Remember, most people who become infected experience only mild illness and recover, but it can be more severe for others. Older adults, especially those with underlying medical issues, are more susceptible. People who have serious chronic medical conditions are also at risk, including those with heart disease, diabetes and lung disease. Take care of your health and protect others by doing the following:

• Wash your hands frequently. Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water.
• Maintain social distancing. Maintain at least a 3-foot distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing. When someone coughs or sneezes they spray small liquid droplets from their nose or mouth which may contain virus. If you are too close, you can breathe in the droplets, including the COVID-19 virus if the person coughing has the disease.
• Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth. Hands touch many surfaces and can pick up viruses. Once contaminated, hands can transfer the virus to your eyes, nose or mouth. From there, the virus can enter your body and can make you sick.
• Contain your cough or sneeze. Be sure to cover your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then dispose of the used tissue immediately.
• Stay home if you’re sick. If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention and call in advance. Follow the directions of your local hospital, doctor or health authority.

The Health Gap team works in our community everyday to help our neighbors understand the importance of healthy living. That attitude is has never been more important as we deal with this unprecedented emergency. Please join us in staying vigilant and proactive to keep ourselves, and our loved ones, co-workers and neighbors safe in the weeks and months ahead.

To stay on top of the latest developments, here are links to helpful resources:

• World Health Organization Updates on Coronavirus
• City of Cincinnati COVID-19 Updates
• CDC Coronavirus Updates

Renee Mahaffey Harris, Health Gap President & CEO