Written By Charlotte Adams

Life during a pandemic is not fun, at least for me. What is COVID-19? Should I be worried? Will my family and I be okay? There are so many concerns and unanswered questions. It can be scary. Just remember this will eventually pass.

What is COVID-19? COVID-19 is a novel virus which means it is new . Health professionals are working very hard to try and understand this virus. Trying to find a treatment or cure. Tying to create a vaccine. Over a few months we have known this virus the symptoms have grown. We also know some people have worse symptoms and complications leading to death. While others may be A symptomatic meaning they show no symptoms at all. This is scary, but do not be scared to where you let fear rule your life.

I had been following the corona virus since January when it was not yet in the United States. I was already checking the World Health Organization website daily to see how it was growing. Honestly I saw the threat, but was hoping like with Ebola, we would stop it in it’s tracks. My first response is not to panic. I am a get the facts and educate yourself type of person. That is what I was doing. In March I was angry though when people went crazy buying out the grocery stores. So when I went to get my normal every two weeks groceries, the store was bare. I only had 2 rolls of toilet paper and had to go to 4 stores before finding a pack. I watched the news and heard the president say he talked with major grocery store chains and they were still going to be open for resupplies. Listen to the experts and educate yourself of the situation. Go the CDC and WHO websites. Ohio has a great coronavirus website with lots of information. If you are unable to watch the news or social media because it is too much have someone else give you updates.

Here are some tips to help you get thorough this:

• Explain to kids at their level of what is happening. Educate them do not scare them. Teach them to wash their hands when they come inside. Teach the social distancing. Educate them on wearing a mask when they go out and how to properly use sanitizers and not touching their face.
  

• Self care is important as well as time to yourself/ Even kids may need time to themselves. Everyone should have an area they can go to for alone time as needed during quarantine. Read, meditate, go for a walk, bubble bath, or whatever relaxes you at the moment.
  

• Also have a plan so if anyone is sick or becomes sick how will they be separated from the family members who have no signs or symptoms. Things are opening back up so you may not think this is important, but round two is coming.
  

• A lot of families were hit financially by the shut down and quarantine. Schools and daycares closed making it hard for even the parents who were still working. Your state website should have information on resources available to you.
  

• As things start opening back up make sure you take precautions to protect yourself and others:
  

• Wash your hands when you come in the house.
  

• Use hand sanitizer when you out or unable to do proper hand washing.
  

• Sanitize and disinfect door knobs and handles.
  

• Wear a mask in public out of respect for others.
  

• Social distance when you can out of respect for others.
  

• Educate yourself by going to the CDC and WHO websites. Also check out your state or local government websites. Listen to the experts not the hype.
  

• Avoid large gatherings.
  

• Do not horde and only get the items you will need for 2 weeks or at the most a month at a time.
  

• Research how to prepare for the second wave.
  

This pandemic is not over and it will not be for some time. Be wise and educate yourself on advice from the experts. take care of yourself and your family. Respect yourself and others. Stay safe by following precautions we have been given. Always check with your local and state health guidelines as they may have helpful advice for your immediate location.