Getting Your Household Ready for COVID-19

As of the first few days of this week, the Lompoc Valley has been spared — so far — from large-scale community transmission. LVMC CEO Steve Popkin indicated Tuesday morning that there were no positive cases at the hospital or in the community.

But the CDC wants people to understand that COVID-19 is caused by a new virus, and much is to be learned about its transmission and severity. A COVID-19 outbreak could last a long time in our community. Already, public health and government officials are urging measures to reduce exposure, slow the spread, and to keep people healthy. For the most updated information, check publichealthsbc.org or lompocvmc.com.

With so much uncertainty in the world, creating a household plan can help protect your own health and the health and well-being of your household. It can also give you a sense of purpose and control. And because we live in a region prone to earthquakes, wildfires, and floods, having a household plan is an appropriate response for all times.

So how do you create a plan of action? If you’re a military or government family, you may already know. But for others, there are some simple steps suggested by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

• Talk with people who need to be included in your plan. Discuss what you plan to do if a COVID-19 outbreak occurs in the community with your household members, relatives, and friends. Find out the needs of your core group, especially the very young and elderly.

• Plan to care for those at high risk. While information is evolving about the risk factors for COVID-19, the CDC is evaluating data from related coronaviruses such as SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV. That information indicates that it is possible that older adults and people with underlying chronic medical conditions, such as asthma, may be at risk for more severe complications. If you or your household member is at increased risk.

• Identify aid organizations in your community. Create a list that best suits the need of your household. Visit LVMC’s website at lompocvmc.com, or the city of Lompoc’s site at (www.cityoflompoc.com/community/coronavirus-local-information-and-resources). Seek out resources for healthcare, food, mental health and counseling, and more.

• Create an emergency contact list. An emergency list is crucial at all times, regardless of a pandemic. List emergency contacts for family, friends, healthcare providers, employers, teachers, carpool drivers, and more. Make copies and keep them on your refrigerator and in your car.

• Before COVID-19 reaches your home, plan for where to separate a sick household member from those who are healthy. Designate a separate room and bathroom if possible—plan to clean those spaces often.

• Because COVID-19 has severely impacted businesses, learn about your employer’s emergency operations plan. Find out about sick leave policies and procedures and the potential for working at home if your job allows. Check with government sources about financial aid.

While lists and plans are critical, the basics are also essential. The CDC recommends reminding everyone in your household of the importance of practicing everyday preventive actions that can help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses. Those include:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

• Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care.

• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue.

• Clean frequently touched surfaces and objects daily using regular household detergent and water.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol, if you have it. Always wash your hands with soap and water if your hands are visibly dirty.