The coronavirus outbreak is creating global concern and has recently been discovered in the metro Atlanta area. It is important to understand what the virus is and how it may impact you. Although, there is currently no vaccine, there are preventative measures the community can implement to prevent further spread. Corso Atlanta is taking several steps to continue to create a safe environment for residents in the community.
What is COVID-19 (Coronavirus)?
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), COVID-19 is a respiratory virus that was first discovered in China and has since been detected in 70 locations, including the metro Atlanta area. While the virus only has a two percent fatality rate, it has a harsher impact on older adults.
At a press briefing, Nancy Messonnier, M.D., Director of the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, said: “The data coming out of China continues to say that the people who are at higher risk for severe disease and death are those who are older and with underlying health conditions.”
These underlying health conditions include diabetes and respiratory diseases. People who are smokers or have weakened immune systems are at a higher risk to be impacted by the disease.
Symptoms of coronavirus include fever, coughing, and shortness of breath. Severe complications from the virus can cause pneumonia in both lungs. However, many people who have tested positive for the virus reportedly have little to no symptoms.
The CDC predicts that more cases will appear in the days to come, including more in the United States. The organization says global efforts are focused on containing the spread and mitigating the impact of the Coronavirus.
Preventative Measures:
COVID-19 is primarily spread from person-to-person through close contact with someone who is sick or through inhaling the respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Health officials recommend using the following preventative actions to stay healthy and avoid spreading respiratory illnesses such as Coronavirus:
- Wash hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds
- If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
- Avoid close contact with sick people
- Stay home when sick
- Cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue
Multiple sources are also recommending people to disinfect or wipe down surfaces multiple times a day, as the virus could live on a surface for multiple days. Due to a shortage of personal protective equipment, both the CDC and the World Health Organization are asking for only those who are sick to wear face masks.
Corso Atlanta’s Response:
The Corso Atlanta team is closely monitoring the situation and taking preventative measures to keep our community healthy. We have been following CDC recommended guidelines and collaborating with healthcare providers to tailor our existing response plan to best address the current health concerns. We are taking proactive efforts by increasing our supply of sanitation and personal protective equipment such as gloves and masks. We are also keeping the community informed, and limiting exposure to illness through screening visitors and frequently cleaning high traffic areas.
Clear communication, proper planning, and a joint effort from everyone at Corso Atlanta are the best ways to keep from getting and spreading illnesses such as the flu or COVID-19.
We will continue to monitor the situation closely and maintain a proactive approach to protecting our residents, families, and staff. For more information about COVID-19, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/index.html. If you have questions, please email us at information@villageparkseniorliving.com or call at (678)740-3499.