In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, the officers of Sheet Metal Workers Local 24 urge all members to follow good hygiene protocols as recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to help limit exposure and spread of the disease.
The virus, officially named SARS-CoV-2, causes COVID-19, which stands for coronavirus disease 2019. It comes from the large family of coronaviruses, which may cause illness in animals or humans.
In humans, coronaviruses are known to cause respiratory infections. Symptoms of the virus, which may appear anywhere from two to 14 days after exposure, may include fever, cough and shortness of breath.
Anyone who displays these symptoms is strongly encouraged to stay home and alert their medical provider.
According to the CDC, the virus spreads mainly from person-to-person, generally between those who are in close contact (within about 6 feet). It can also be spread through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
It is believed the virus can live on the surfaces of objects for an unknown period.
In order to lessen the risk of contracting or spreading the virus, the following is urged:
- Wash your hands often
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
- If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer, which contains at least 60 percent alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact
- Avoid close contact with people, who are sick.
- Put distance (six-feet) between yourself and other people if COVID-19 is spreading in your community.
- Take steps to protect others.
- Stay home if you are sick and seek medical care.
- Cover coughs and sneezes
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow.
- Throw used tissues in the trash.
- Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer.
- Clean and disinfect
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets and sinks.