Coronavirus Information

As we are all facing unprecedented times currently, we want to do everything possible to support our caregivers in caring for themselves and the children in their care. Please find below some resources that are available for you to read, print, and share with your family members. We understand that while you are trying to calm the fears of the youth in your lives, you are likely experiencing your own uncertainty. There is power in education and we are here to help. Below are links to guide you in discussions with your loved ones as well as reminders on how to manage your own stress and discomfort. 

While many of you are navigating the waters of children and youth being home instead of school and daycare, it is important to be vigilant of what they are doing in their idle time.  We understand you can’t fill every moment of their day with educational resources and physical exercise. When they do resort to screen time, please be mindful that there are unfortunately people out there that will take advantage of these opportunities. Shared Hope International, Inc. is one of our partner agencies focused on human trafficking and below is a portion of a statement they released as well as some printable material you can utilize.

“Children are out of school for social distancing, and are now likely spending more time on the Internet or gaming than during a normal school week. With everyone being encouraged to stay indoors and children are home from school due to COVID-19, porn companies are offering free viewing of their content in select countries as a marketing strategy. And according to Google Analytics, porn searches skyrocket by 4700% when kids are out of school.”

Resources from Shared Hope International:

What you need to know about COVID-19

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a new disease that causes respiratory illness in people and can spread from person to person. People of all ages can be infected. Older adults and people with pre-existing medical conditions like asthma, diabetes and heart disease may be more likely to become severely ill if infected. Many details about this disease are still unknown, such as treatment options, how the virus works, and the total impact of the illness

COVID-19 is a respiratory disease that is caused by a new virus called a coronavirus, which has become a public health emergency. The number of cases continue to increase nationally and globally.

The symptoms of coronavirus include mild to severe respiratory symptoms. Symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath, and lower respiratory illness. COVID-19 can be contagious before a person begins showing symptoms.

Influenza (the flu), a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza viruses (Type A and Type B), has high activity in the United States at this time. Everyone 6 months of age and older should get a flu vaccine.

If you have been exposed or begin showing symptoms of the virus or flu, contact your healthcare provider or health department immediately. 

We all have a role to play in protecting our communities and families from the spread of coronavirus. It is similar to other communicable viruses. You can also follow these tips to prevent infection:

  • Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently. Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  • Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizing rub (must contain at least 60 percent alcohol).
  • Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze by coughing/sneezing into your elbow.
  • Promptly dispose of tissues in a wastebasket after use.
  • Clean public surfaces thoroughly.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Avoid shaking hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Get a flu vaccine.

Worry and anxiety can rise about the spread of COVID-19. Concern for friends and family who live in places where COVID-19 is spreading or the progression of the disease is natural.

  • Take care of your body. Take deep breaths, stretch or meditate.
  • Connect with others. Share your concerns and how you are feeling with a friend or family member. Maintain healthy relationships and a sense of hope and positive thinking.
  • Share the facts about COVID-19 and the actual risk to others. People who have returned from areas of ongoing spread more than 14 days ago and do not have symptoms of COVID-19 do not put others at risk.
  • For more information, see the CDC’s suggestions for mental health and coping during COVID-19

For more information, including travel advisories, please visit cdc.gov.