Anticipating the need to protect against coronavirus risk, Parker Jewish Institute has implemented additional measures to safeguard the health of residents, employees, and families, as well as visitors to the center.
On Monday, March 2, Parker’s administrative leadership updated staff with revised guidelines for precautionary tactics against the virus. Reinforced protocols include increasing hand hygiene, isolating any infected patients, and mandating that health care workers stay home if they feel ill.
As concerns mount over the spread of the virus, Parker has urged people not to visit the Institute if they feel sick. This is especially true for those who became ill after recent international travel, or if they were in close contact with someone who was ill after traveling internationally. Sharing World Health Organization and the U.S. Department of Health guidelines, Parker advises these individuals instead to immediately seek guidance from their healthcare providers.
“We remain vigilant when it comes to protecting the health of the Parker community,” said Michael N. Rosenblut, president and CEO of Parker Jewish Institute. “As we monitor the coronavirus, we are working closely with state and federal health officials to continue to protect our residents and staff, their families, and participants of our many programs.”
What is coronavirus?
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that are common in people and many different species of animals. COVID-19 Novel (meaning “new”) coronavirus is a virus strain that has only spread in people since December 2019. There are thousands of confirmed cases in China and additional cases being identified in a growing number of countries internationally, including the United States.
How does novel coronavirus spread?
The virus that causes COVID-19 probably emerged from an animal source, but now it seems to be spreading from person to person. Since this virus is very new, health authorities continue to carefully watch how this virus spreads. Other coronaviruses spread from an infected person to others through:
- The air by coughing and sneezing
- Close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands
- Touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes
What are the symptoms?
People who have been diagnosed with novel coronavirus have symptoms that may appear in as few as two days or as long as 14 days after exposure to the virus. Symptoms may include fever, cough, and shortness of breath.
How can I prevent getting novel coronavirus?
Currently, there are no vaccines available to prevent novel coronavirus infections. Steps you can take to prevent the spread of flu and the common cold will also help prevent coronavirus:
- Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If not available, use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
- Stay home while you are sick and avoid contact with others
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
If you would like more information about programs and services, please call 1-877-727-5373 or visit parkerinstitute.org.
Submitted by Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation
