As many of us have become aware from the news, the first case of death from COVID-19 in California has happened in Kaiser Roseville. This is then an opportunity for us to learn what we can about the virus and also to attempt to limit its spreading within the community. We do so remaining prayerful for those who have been exposed to the virus (and other ailments), and also thankful for those who look for cures and those who tend to the ailing. We must also never forget that we are a prayer, faithful, hopeful and joyful people, firmly grounded in the Resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!
One of our physicians has prepared the following information for us:
COVID-19 infection presents with flu-like symptoms, fever, cough, and sore throat, as well as abdominal pain and diarrhea in some cases. Adults age 60 y.o. or above, and people with weakened immune system (for example, on biologics, chemotherapy, with history cancer or lung disease) are at risk for severe illness due to respiratory failure (inability to breathe effectively).
Most common ways the virus is transmitted is through contact with infected body fluids (for example touching a contaminated surface of an object within 6 feet of an infected person who was coughing or sneezing, then touching your eyes, mouth, or nose). Virus lives outside the human body for about 2 days. So good cleaning and hand hygiene are very important.
The second most common way to contract the virus is through droplets of bodily fluids from coughing, sneezing, or eating within 6 feet of a person who has an infection. The way to protect yourself from this mode of transmission is through wearing a simple surgical mask.
The least common way to get sick from the COVID-19 is airborne transmission. There are special masks that can be purchased online, however they do have to be fitted in order to work properly. Additionally, non medical personnel purchasing them has led to a shortage in some hospitals. Therefore, if you travel to the Emergency room, a hospital, an airport, on a plane, or in a crowded situation with higher risk of exposure to sick people, consider a surgical mask, along with safety googles and hand sanitizer..
At the parish, we will do the following:
provide alcohol based hand sanitizer and wipes in the Narthex to help maintain good hand hygiene.
sanitize surfaces in and around the parish, including icons and the blessing Cross.
provide surgical masks in the Narthex, which you may wish to put on if you have a cough (though best to stay home if you are sick) or if you are over 60 or have a weakened immune system.
Thankfully, little children are much less likely to get severe illness from COVID-19. They can however pass the infection to others even if they themselves may have mild illness, because they commonly won't cover their cough or wear masks withe ease. If a child is sick, consider keeping him/her at home out of respect for those who are older and or with weakened immune systems.
Again, thank you to all of our medical professionals at the Parish. May God continue to inspire them in the care of the ailing through the intercessions of Ss. Cosmas and Damian, Ss. Kyros and John, S. Panteleimon, S. Luke of Crimea, and all of the physician saints. May the Lord be merciful to all!