Now that we are all living with a “new normal” it is vital that we all help in the fight against COVID-19 to keep ourselves and others safe. As restrictions are beginning to be lifted it is even more important that we all follow the recommended procedures and avoid rumors. Below is a general overview including links to additional information to keep safe during this time:

• Stay 6 feet apart (2 arm lengths apart) because people may be asymptomatic (not showing symptoms) but are still able to spread the virus to others.
• Wear a mask – it is easy to  make one at home.   Remember that children under the age of 2 years should not wear cloth face coverings. While most children can feel comfortable seeing people in masks some toddlers and young children may feel uneasy about them. They may need extra support and comfort from their parents.
• Eat healthy, balanced meals.
• Take care of yourself!. Laugh as much as you can and exercise as much as possible.
• If you have underlying conditions stay in touch with your doctor through telemedicine or by phone.
• Free and confidential help is available 24/7 if you are thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one or would like emotional support. Contact resolve Crisis Services or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
• If you cough or sneeze and use a tissue, throw it away immediately in a lined garbage can and wash your hands for 20 seconds. If you do not have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow.
• Do not shake hands. Instead, do an elbow bump or foot bump.
• Stay in as much as you can.
• Stay connected with family and friends. Try to make time every day to connect with the people who are most important to you through social media or by phone, and while talking with them really focus on them and do not multitask. Recommit to making relationships a priority in your life.
• Stay up on current information and resources through local information, City of Pittsburgh, Allegheny County and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania  as well as the  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer.
• Clean and disinfect your home.
• Do not mix cleaning solutions. Keep cleaning solutions and hand sanitizer out of reach of young children. Contact the Poison Control Center right away if you suspect a poisoning.  Follow instructions for cleaning and disinfecting your home  and using disinfectants safely.
• Make use of free apps like Calm and online games  like Free Brain Age Games.
• Remember to be kind to yourself and each other, and that we are all doing the very best we can.