Dear Members,
This time of year we expect to see an increase in colds, viruses, stomach bugs, and the flu in our facilities, program sites and communities during winter. This season, however, we face a new and serious health concern with the coronavirus. YMCAs across the country are monitoring the global coronavirus situation closely. The links below provide up-to-date information about coronavirus and offer guidance and resources for responding to this and other types of widespread illnesses.
In addition to these resources, the CDC encourages individuals to engage state and local health departments to confirm channels of communication and methods for dissemination of local information as necessary. The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) continues to report that the immediate risk to the general public statewide is low.
What you should do:
There are steps people can take to reduce their risk of getting and spreading any viral respiratory infections. We encourage you to share these tips with your family members, and our staff will be encouraged to reinforce them at school.
- STAY INFORMED – CDC is updating its website daily with the latest information and advice for the public. (www.cdc.gov/ncov)
- REMEMBER TO TAKE EVERYDAY PREVENTIVE ACTIONS that are always recommended to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses.
- Avoid close contact with sick people.
- While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible.
- Stay home if you are sick.
- Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands; germs spread this way.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub with at least 60% alcohol.
- IF YOU FEEL SICK with fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, and have traveled to China or were in close contact with someone with 2019-nCoV in the 14 days before you began to feel sick, seek medical care. Before you go to a doctor’s office or emergency room, call ahead and tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms.