Wear a Cloth Mask
When you are in public, cover your nose and mouth with a cloth mask. Make sure there is no gap between your face and the mask. When removing your mask, do not touch the front, remove it from the ear loops or straps. Put cloth masks in the washing machine immediately after use.
Shopping
Wearing a mask, social distancing (at least six feet!), handwashing, and sanitizing regularly are your best tools. Make trips during off-peak hours and touch as few things as possible. Use touchless payment. Wipe surfaces of packaged food to clean them.
Stay Social — at a Distance
Wearing a mask is not a substitute for social distancing. Socializing is very important for mental health! For now, keep it virtual. Explore apps such as Zoom or FaceTime or pick up the phone and call your friends and family the old fashioned way. Hearing a loved one’s voice is helpful during this difficult time.
Medical Care
If you need medical care, Emerson is safe and ready to care for you. Do not delay care. In an emergency, call 9-1-1. For non-emergency care, including COVID-19 symptoms and all medical needs, call your doctor first before heading to urgent care or the emergency department. Many practices offer telehealth appointments covered by insurance. Learn more at emersonhospital.org/telehealth.
Tips to Feel Better if You Have COVID-19 Symptoms
Drink lots of fluids to stay hydrated, including water, juice, Gatorade and Pedialyte. Use acetaminophen for muscle aches and fevers. Call your doctor regarding the use of other over-the-counter medications. Try to continue to eat a balanced diet with fruit, vegetables and protein to aid in your recovery.
Rest up. Now is the time to take the best care of yourself, and that includes getting as much rest as possible. While you are awake, make an effort to stand and perform slow, deep breathing exercises for a few minutes every hour. Wash your hands thoroughly (for at least 20 seconds) and frequently. Stay calm; the medical community is available to care for you. Call your doctor if you have concerns about any of your symptoms. Stay virtually connected with family and friends. (These tips are provided by Russell Zide, MD, FSVM, internal medicine, Emerson Primary Care Associates of Bedford.)
Exercise
Exercise is very important for mental and physical health! Try to exercise daily. If you are outside, keep a minimum of six feet apart from other people. If you see someone approach, move to the other side of the street or slow down so they can pass quickly.
Mental Health
During this stressful time, know that this is a temporary situation. Seek help if you or a loved one has severe depression or thoughts of suicide. Here are some hotline numbers:
