Coronavirus Prevention

Coronavirus (COVID-19)

When looking at care options, consider home care as an option due to its ability to keep the elderly safe and independent in their own home by promoting social distancing.

Caregivers can pick up groceries, medications, and other items that seniors need, minimizing their interaction with other people who may have been infected with the virus.

Our Home Care Service Helps Protect Our Clients

Our caregivers and team members have received training regarding these virus protocols:

• Symptoms
• Travel reporting requirements
• Respiratory etiquette
• Safety protocols
• Proper handwashing techniques
• Warning signs of illness
• Infection control, including effective disinfecting of surfaces and hands

Clients and families should report the following to their Care Manager if they:

• Are infected or being treated for possible infection of COVID-19
• Have traveled to a location on the CDC advisory list
• Have limited mobility and need support in getting medical supplies or basic necessities (water, gloves, cleaning products, etc.)

Our team will not place a caregiver with a client for a minimum of two weeks or until cleared by a medical provider if the caregiver has:

• Traveled to a location on the CDC advisory list in the prior two months
• Been exposed to a place where COVID- 19 is being treated
• Started showing symptoms of the virus

Our team will not place a caregiver who has symptoms of virus infection on assignment or accept new clients who show symptoms that are highly consistent with the COVID-19 diagnosis or who have traveled to Level one through three areas in the last two weeks.

What we currently know about the Coronavirus:

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person. The virus that causes COVID-19 is a novel coronavirus that was first identified during an investigation into an outbreak in Wuhan, China.

How the virus spreads:

According to the CDC, the virus is now spreading from person to person mainly between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet) through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. A person can also get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.

A person can be infectious before showing symptoms, which is why it is important to practice proper social distancing measures. To reduce the risk of infection, older adults should avoid leaving their homes unless it’s critically necessary.

Your Role in Keeping Your Family and Yourself Safe

The CDC recommends taking precautions to prevent the spread of the diseases:

• Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol
• Avoid touching your face, eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
• Routinely clean and disinfect objects and surfaces since the virus is very susceptible to common anti-bacterial cleaners like bleach, hydrogen peroxide, and anything alcohol-based
• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue and then throw it away
• Refill critical prescription medications
• Reschedule routine medical appointments
• Utilize telemedicine or other virtual tools to if you need to connect with your physician
• Seek out information from reliable sources
• Stay positive and reassure those around you
• Find emotional support by communicating with friends or family via the phone or internet

If you are sick or at risk:

• Use a face mask a to avoid spreading to others
• Stay at home and avoid other people

The symptoms of the virus:

Common symptoms include fever, cough and difficulty breathing.

Most vulnerable groups:

Older adults and individuals with compromised immune systems or certain preexisting conditions.
Those who have traveled to areas most affected by the virus.
Individuals who have been in close contact with infected individuals.

Coronavirus Prevention: Essential Strategies to Protect Yourself and Others

Preventing the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) remains a top priority, especially for high-risk populations such as older adults and those with chronic medical conditions. Understanding and implementing effective coronavirus prevention strategies can significantly reduce the risk of infection and help protect both individuals and communities.

1. Practice Rigorous Hand Hygiene

Coronavirus Prevention – One of the most important and effective steps in coronavirus prevention is frequent and thorough handwashing. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after being in public places, blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. When soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

2. Maintain Social Distance

COVID-19 spreads mainly through respiratory droplets from person-to-person contact. To reduce the risk, maintain a physical distance of at least six feet from others, particularly in indoor spaces or crowded areas. Avoid unnecessary outings and stay away from large gatherings whenever possible.

3. Wear a Face Mask Properly

Wearing a face covering in public settings—especially where social distancing is difficult—is a key preventive measure. Masks help block respiratory droplets and protect both the wearer and those around them. Ensure your mask covers both your nose and mouth snugly without gaps.

4. Avoid Touching Your Face

The virus can enter your body through the eyes, nose, or mouth. Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands, and be mindful of unconscious habits such as rubbing your eyes or scratching your nose.

5. Clean and Disinfect Regularly

Surfaces that are frequently touched—such as door handles, light switches, phones, and countertops—should be cleaned and disinfected daily. Use disinfectants that are approved by health authorities and known to be effective against coronaviruses.

6. Stay Home if You Are Sick

If you are feeling unwell or experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath), stay at home and isolate yourself from others. Seek medical advice and follow your local health department’s guidance regarding testing and treatment.

7. Get Vaccinated and Stay Up-to-Date

Vaccination remains one of the most powerful tools in the fight against COVID-19. It significantly lowers the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Stay informed about booster shot eligibility and updates from official health organizations like the CDC and WHO.

8. Use Telehealth Services When Possible

Coronavirus Prevention – To minimize exposure, consider using telemedicine options for non-urgent medical consultations. Many healthcare providers now offer virtual visits, which allow patients to receive professional guidance from the safety of their homes.

9. Support High-Risk Individuals

Seniors and those with compromised immune systems need extra support. Help them by running errands, providing accurate health information, and ensuring their home is stocked with essential supplies, including masks, hand sanitizers, and medications.

10. Stay Informed and Spread Awareness

Stay updated through trusted sources such as the CDC, WHO, and your local health department. Avoid sharing unverified information that may cause panic or misinformation. Educating others about coronavirus prevention is an act of care and responsibility.

Final Thoughts on Coronavirus Prevention

Preventing the spread of COVID-19 requires a combination of personal responsibility, community awareness, and ongoing commitment to health and hygiene practices. Whether you’re caring for yourself, your family, or vulnerable community members, following these preventive measures can save lives and limit the long-term impact of the pandemic.

For those receiving in-home care, our trained caregivers ensure strict adherence to all coronavirus prevention protocols, offering peace of mind and safe, compassionate support.