As COVID-19 cases continue to increase, health officials warn that the spread of this novel virus is inevitable. Now more than ever, it’ s important to take the appropriate steps to ensure that your home remains clean and COVID-19 free. Here are some ways you can prevent the spread of COVID-19.

It’s always smart to thoroughly wash your hands, avoid contact with individuals exhibiting flu-like symptoms and wipe down frequently touched surfaces with disinfectant wipes, however there is more you can do.

Protect Your Home From Coronavirus

It’s important to clean surfaces before you disinfect. On frequently touched areas like doorknobs, counter-tops, tables, light switches, toilets and faucets use soap, water or detergent.

The CDC distinguishes cleaning from disinfecting as the removal of germs, dirt, and impurities from surfaces. Cleaning does not kill germs, but by removing them, lowers their numbers and the risk of spreading infection.

After cleaning these areas, it’s important to then begin disinfecting. Disinfecting as refers to using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces. This process does not exactly result in cleaning dirty surfaces or removing germs, but by killing germs on a surface after cleaning, it can further lower the risk of spreading infection.

To effectively disinfect, you will need a solution that is at containing at least 70% alcohol or diluted household bleach solutions. Make sure you are checking for expiration dates on your cleaning products.

The CDC also recommends making your own bleach solution. This can be done by mixing 5 tablespoons per gallon of water.

Electronics

We often forget about the devices that rarely leave our hands. Phones, tablets, laptops, kindle’s- ANY “high touch” item needs to be cleaned. Many of us take some of these items to the bathroom, wash our hands and then pick up our device without a second thought. It’s not recommended to rub disinfectants, alcohol or other spray onto your electronics devices because these solutions can cause damage. To clean your device in a protective way, first turn it off and then lightly dampen a cloth with soap and water.

Preparation

Not only is it important to stay clean and disinfect, but also to have a proper supply of important items. Some items to stock up on include

• Laundry detergent and bathroom items like toilet paper and paper towels
• Disinfectants
• Gloves
• Diapers if you have small children
• Check to make sure you have at least a 30-day supply of your prescription medications hand
• Pain relievers, stomach remedies, cough and cold medicines, fluids with electrolytes and vitamins
• Water
• Self-stable food
• Batteries

This recommendation comes from the chance that your community could be quarantined if cases of Coronavirus continue to rise, which could keep you from reaching pharmacies and grocery stores.

Tips For The Bathroom

 
Every bathroom in the home should be a high-priority area. Frequently clean and disinfect sinks, bathtubs, floors and mirrors. Do not share hand-towels or show towels, make sure toothbrushes are kept separate from each other. Do not share the same tube of toothpaste.

Sick People In The Home

 
It’s extremely important to keep sick people in the home quarantined. The CDC says that the virus can spread between people who are within about 6 feet of each other. If someone in your home is sick it’s highly recommended they are required to stay in their own room and use their own bathroom.

Communication

 
The CDC recommends getting to know your neighbors so you can talk about emergency planning. Your community may have a website or social media page, consider joining it to maintain access to information and resources. If your community does not, consider setting one up.

Create an emergency contact list with family members, friends, neighbors, health care providers, teachers, employers, the local public health department, and other community resources.

Stay Calm

Most importantly, stay calm. It’s completely normal to feel stress and anxiety during a global pandemic that is affecting almost every part of your life. Schools are closing, grocery store shelves are empty, in some areas curfews are being put into place and businesses are closing. While it’s important to stay informed, dialing down media exposure is a good idea for those who are feeling overwhelmed.

For those who are forced to work from home, stick to a routine. Set a schedule that allows you to eat healthy, continue exercise and focus on keeping yourself and your loved ones healthy. Check out this article for some at home fitness tips and routines!

Remember, we’re all in this together. Wash your hands, practice social distancing and stay positive!