Coronavirus Preparedness and Collective Resilience
As the threat of coronavirus increases in Northern California, so does the stress and fear we are feeling in our communities. However, it is more important than ever that we support one another both to prepare, and to stay calm, connected and resilient amidst these uncertain times.
The impacts of coronavirus will not be equitably experienced across our communities– the elderly, those who experience chronic illnesses, and those without access to preventative resources will be most at risk.
Click here to view our in-progress community preparedness resource sheet
Saturday webinar: Cranky Queer Guide for Chronic Illness
We encourage all in our community to consider creating a plan for community-care and mutual aid, as well as self care, as we prepare for the times ahead. To learn more, join Saturday’s webinar held by the The Cranky Queer Guide to Chronic Illness and #MEAction on COVID-19 (Coronavirus) prep, this Saturday March 7th, at 10:00 AM PST. The webinar will focus on Lifesaving, practical tools and support for preparedness for people with chronic illnesses in the US, incorporating disability justice, emergent strategies & mutual aid practices.
In our commitment to supporting emergency preparedness across the region, we at NorCal Resilience are doing our best to keep tabs on this pressing issue, and are compiling all the resources and information we can find for our members to disseminate across your communities.
Boost your immune system using natural remedies
You can use the following natural herbs and foods to boost your immune system: Tulsi (holy basil), most mints, Ginger, Raw garlic, oregano, sage, fennel, raw honey, olive leaf, cinnamon (ceylon), shiitake, reishi and other beta glucan rich mushrooms, yarrow, boneset, black tea, green tea, raw onion, lomatium, thyme, calendula, clove, lemon balm (hypothyroidism may be contraindication), licorice glabra (careful if you have high blood press), elecampane, ACV, astragalus, chicken soup/bone broth
Make Your Own Hand Sanitizer
With hand sanitizer selling out in stores, here are a few recipes you to make at home:
- https://livesimply.me/diy-hand-sanitizer/
- https://www.thespruce.com/make-your-own-homemade-hand-sanitizer-606145
Please read below for some key need-to-knows about coronavirus preparedness:
What are the Symptoms of Coronavirus?
Symptoms include fever, cough, shortness of breath and may appear 2-14 days after exposure. Reported illnesses have ranged from mild symptoms to severe illness and death for confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases (CDC).
Take a look at these multi-lingual factsheets you can share with your community:
- Updated COVID-19 Factsheets from the Department of Public Health are here: English, Spanish, Chinese and Filipino.
- COVID-19 FAQs are available here. Translations for this document are currently in-progress.
- Factsheet on Best Practices For Service Workers.
What can I do to prevent illness?
There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus. According to the CDC, the best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus through everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
How should I prepare in case of emergency?
Experts are recommending sticking up on a number of items in the event that a widespread quarantine is to occur.
What to have in your emergency kit (for at least 14 days):
- Non-perishable foods
- Water and other hydrating beverages
- Hygienic and supplies
- Extra medicine and first aid kit
- Copies of your health records
Two helpful resources:
As we face into the unknown together, it has never been more important for us to stay connected and committed to collective resilience. Through equitable resource sharing, relationship building, and deep community care we have the chance to be stronger and more prepared to face whatever the future may bring, from this emergency to the next. From this world, into the new one.