Eric Paul Justin, MD, MPH, MBA | 10 April 2020
Easter Greetings to all! May you and yours have a Blessed Easter despite these trying times in our country and around the world. I sincerely hope you, your family, and your friends are well.
We are all having a difficult time grappling with NOT going to church during Holy Week. Thanks to an outstanding effort by all those who lead our church and those who toil to help those leaders bring God’s Word to all of us by video on the internet, we are able to continue in our Christ-centered way of life. The services and bulletins provided for each Lenten service and Holy Week service have been quite reassuring to my wife Deb and myself. I hope the same is true for all of you.
Social distancing has shown evidence of early progress in several places around our country. Progress and thus ‘success’ is slow but clearly worthwhile. Since last week one pertinent change for all of us is the recommendation to wear face masks when going out.
A homemade cloth mask or light scarf will do fine. What is not needed is a ‘medical’ mask such as the N95 masks (respirators) which we have heard so much about. These remain in short supply and are desperately needed by first responders, nurses, doctors, police, firemen, and many other others who come into close contact with either the public or with patients.
There is strong evidence from around the world that the Coronavirus or COVID-19 can rather easily be spread by tiny droplets we create from our saliva even by simply speaking. This is particularly true in more intimate group settings during which hugs and kisses are exchanged, shaking of hands occurs, meals and drink are shared, and in general when there is ‘shoulder to shoulder’ fellowship involved. In addition to six or more feet of separation MASKS are now known to be quite useful to stop the spread of the Coronavirus by these tiny droplets. Thus if you are going out to the grocery store or on some other needed trip from your home or apartment, wear a mask.
Here is a link to information from the CDC about face masks including details on when to use them, how to make them, etc:
Prior recommendations to avoid infection remain just as important:
Again, best ways to prevent infection from COVID-19 begin with SOCIAL DISTANCING.
Also take everyday actions that help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses:
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. No need to scald your hands. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer that is at least 60% alcohol.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Do not come in close contact with people who are sick.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you sneeze or cough. Throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands afterward.
- Stay home when you are sick.
All the best to you this Easter!
Eric
