COVID-19 Health and Safety Tips

Collectively, we know that most individuals started 2020 with the clique, “ I’m  seeing this year with clear vision.”  Unfortunately, our clear vision has been blurred with COVID-19.  Each day, we receive additional information regarding the detrimental effects of COVID-19, pumping more uncertainties of what is instore for our future. Over the past week the Winston County Self Help Cooperative (WCSHC) has received multiple questions on how to sustain through this pandemic.  Therefore, we designed this newsletter to cover certain hotspot topics to help assist you and your loved one during this bleak time.

Studies show that the virus obstructs the respiratory pathway with thick mucus, which solidifies. To apply medicines the airways must be unblocked.  However, it may take days to unblock the airway. Additionally, there is a shortage of the machine used to deliver the medications to penetrate the mucous. That said, it is gravely important for each individual to do their part in fighting this Pandemic. Therefore, following the tips below may help individuals avoid contracting the virus.

The virus obstructs respiratory pathway with thick mucus which solidifies, to apply medicines to the airways COVID-19 Preventive tips to follow daily. 

1. Drink lots of hot items: (for example: tea, coffee, soup)
2. Sip hot water every 20 minutes, this keeps the mouth moist and washes the virus into the stomach and gastric juices will neutralize it
3. Gargle every day with antiseptic (i.e. vinegar, salt or lemon) and warm water everyday
4. The virus attaches to hair and clothes, wash clothes everyday
5. Bath or shower immediately when coming in from outside
6. Wash metallic surfaces carefully, the virus can remain viable for 9 days
7. Avoid touching knobs and handles, sanitize your knobs and handles at home
8. Wash hands with foamy soap every 20 minutes for 20 seconds
9. Eat lots of fruit and veggies to help build zinc levels not just vitamin C levels
10. Animals do not spread the virus, it is person to person transmission
11. Avoid getting the common flu
12. Avoid drinking cold fluids
13. If you feel any discomfort in your throat, attack it immediately. The virus remains in the throat for a few days before traveling to lungs
(Tips adopted by a provider whose name is unknown)

Hopefully, by now one’s pantry and fridge are fully stocked with supplies for at least a month.  If not, please see the list below to use as a proper food guide.   

• Vinegar
• Ramen noodles
• Peanut butter
• Cereal (6 boxes)
• Milk Lactaid (last longer) (4)
• Frozen vegetables lots
• Rice
• Beans
• Crackers
• Tuna
• Potatoes (sweet and white potato)
• Oil
• Oatmeal
• Grits
• Flour
• Meal
• Eggs (2-24 count)
• Apple sauce
• Juice (apple juice, cranberry)
• Gatorade
• Poultry, Meat and fish (chicken, pork, turkey, salmon)
• Bread or fajita rolls
• Water

Meds to keep in stock (if you have a medical condition, please consult with your provider first)

• Cough drops
• Tylenol
• Theraflu cough and cold medicine or store brand cough and cold medicine
• Mucinex or an equivalent
• Herbal teas (throat coat, echinacea tea)
• Vitamin B12
• Vitamin C
• Alcohol
• Peroxide

Although the shelves are wiped out, if diligent one can find products online. A member was able to purchase gloves, mask and toilet tissue at HDsupply.com. on Monday 3/23/2020

Cleaning supplies:
• Bleach
• Detergent
• Lysol
• Wipes (baby wipes work)
• Toilet tissue
• Gloves
• Mask
• Toothpaste
• Toothbrush
• Toilet tissue
• Paper towels