COVID-19 Advice for Residents

With the Government's announcement yesterday to shut schools, colleges, public facilities and to urge people to limit public interaction, we understand that these are times of uncertainty for all particularly those who are elderly or who have elderly relatives or those with underlying health issues.

With that in mind there are a few things we all need to keep in mind over the coming days and weeks;

1. Although social interaction should be limited if there is any way you can help someone who may need it, please do. This could be as simple as picking up and extra milk or bread for an elderly neighbour or dropping them over a bit of dinner. Of course, anyone who is experiencing a high temperature/fever, coughing, sneezing or flu-like symptoms should not offer assistance.

2. Anyone with children or who looks after children please note (this was shared by a consultant respiratory paediatrician in Cork University Hospital) that with Coronavirus, children are vectors, not victims. In most epidemics, young children are the transmitters. Therefore for school closure to be effective, it's really important that the kids aren't mixing with other kids while out of school. They will give it to each other silently pass it on to others. Avoid situations where children will interact. If communities respond to effectively this it will reduce the spread of the virus.

3. Panic buying is not necessary. Please consider those who may only be able to shop on social welfare or pension days or don't have transport to be able to bulk buy. The supply chain is full. The shelves will fill again! See this post on LinkedIn which breaks it down if you're worried. What you can do is continue to support local independent businesses here in Clontarf who will no doubt feel the effects in the coming weeks. They NEED you! We will be posting regular updates from local businesses

4. Finally, WASH YOUR HANDS. This is so so important. Not only should you be washing your hands regularly with soap and warm water but you should be washing them properly. See the infographic below from the World Health Organisation. Also, ensure that children or vulnerable people in your life are washing their hands properly too.

As a community, we can get through this if we support each other and follow the advice of the Government.

Image source: www.who.int