5/26/2020 Explaining COVID-19 to Our Little OnesThese difficult times are challenging for adults and children alike. It can be especially hard for children to process the current pandemic situation. Below, you will find a couple of great resources to share with your children. The first link is a printable book, written by doctors, with colorful illustrations that reassure and reinforce how to stay healthy and safe. The second link is a short video explaining coronavirus to children.
Link to printable book: https://02addcd8-6a92-49d6-8b04-24b198198f35.filesusr.com/ugd/7c7295_33467c6a02cc49b7bae198be87583889.pdf Link to video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6lJQ123_4e8&feature=youtu.be Social Distancing and Why It's Important To effectively implement a social distancing strategy, communities must work together. Social distancing is a strategy used by public health professionals to reduce the spread of disease when medications and vaccines are not available. The goal is to reduce the rate of infection and protect vulnerable people. It is also important because a rapid spread could overwhelm our medical community. Families should consider the following practices: -Stay home as much as possible, only going out for necessities. -Work from home if you are able. -If you must go out in a situation where being socially distant is not ideal, wear a face covering or mask in public as directed by Massachusetts Governor Baker- effective May 6th, 2020. Further information on the use of face masks and how to make one at home can be found on the CDC website here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent- getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html -Refrain from gatherings among friends including playdates and sleepovers. When outside be sure to adhere to the recommended 6 feet of space between yourself and others. - Wash your hands frequently throughout the day. Wash hands for at least 20 seconds, or to the "Happy Birthday" song twice. More information on hand washing can be found here: https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/when-how- handwashing.html It is important to follow these recommendations for many reasons, including:
Coronavirus Symptoms The CDC recently updated their list of official coronavirus symptoms. Please note that not all persons infected with the virus display the same symptoms. Some may be asymptomatic, or only have one symptom, while others may feel very ill with many symptoms. The following is a list of symptoms to watch for. As always, if you have any concerns, call your healthcare provider or local board of health. The Westford Health Department phone number is (978) 692-5509. Symptoms to watch for:
Additional information on coronavirus symptoms can be found on the CDC website here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html |