Navigating the Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Cold and flu season can be unpredictable, and this year is no exception. The Center’s for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates there have been at least 34 million cases of the flu so far this season, and while peak season typically runs from December to February, it can continue to as late as May.

This year brought new challenges with the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). There is still much to be learned about this new virus. There currently is no vaccine that can stop the disease so prevention is key to lowering your risk of infection. That is why Scotties® Facial Tissues wants to ensure everyone has the most up-to-date information directly from the CDC.

Keep reading to learn more about how you can protect you, your loved ones, and your community this season.

Wash Your Hands

This might be the easiest yet most important preventative measure you can take. Wash your hands frequently throughout the day with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially when entering your home, after going to the bathroom, blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing and before eating.

If you don’t have immediate access to soap and water, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Cover Your Nose and Mouth

Use a tissue to cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze, then immediately throw the tissue away in a lined trashcan. It’s important to not leave used tissues lying around to ensure you keep a clean area for yourself and others.

Don’t Touch Your Face

Avoid touching your face – particularly your eyes, nose and mouth – as much as possible, especially if you haven’t washed your hands recently. The virus can easily transfer this way and possibly be inhaled into your lungs.

Clean and Disinfect Regularly

High-touch areas in your home such as phones, keyboards, doorknobs, countertops and fridge handles can quickly collect germs. It’s important to clean and disinfect these and any other surfaces in your home and office regularly with recommended household cleaning and disinfecting products. Also, keep in mind other surfaces like bicycle handlebars and steering wheels – they all need cleaning!

Keep Your Distance

The virus spreads mainly from person-to-person. Therefore, practice physical distancing in general and avoid close contact with people who show symptoms, those with underlying conditions, and the elderly. If you become ill, stay home to avoid infecting others.