Stratford Issues Best Practices For Coronavirus Prevention

Via the Town of Stratford:

STRATFORD, CT — The Town of Stratford is working with its emergency management team to stay up-to-date on the new novel coronavirus, also called COVID-19. While there are no cases reported in Connecticut and the risk to the general public in the U.S. remains low, we are encouraging residents to practice personal preparedness in case the situation evolves. At this time, there is no need to cancel programs and social events. Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports there is no need for the general public to wear masks.

What Do We Know?

• There are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Connecticut. The Stratford Health Department actively investigates newly reported possible cases related to those who meet specific criteria (for example, non-symptomatic travelers).
• Since the virus is very new, health authorities continue to carefully watch how it spreads. Current understanding about how the virus spreads is largely based on what is known about similar viruses.
• The CDC considers the health risk from COVID-19 to be low among the general public in the U.S. at this time. At this point you are more likely to catch the flu or the common cold, which can present with similar symptoms to COVID-19.
• Presently, you are at risk if you have traveled to an effected county or have been in contact with someone who has confirmed COVID-19. By and large, travel history is key.
• Based on current information, the CDC recommends avoiding unnecessary travel to several countries. Updated travel information related to COVID-19 can be found here: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html.

What Can We Do Now?

The SHD recommends reducing the risk of infection for all illnesses. They encourage residents to follow these precautions at all times:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol if soap and water are not available.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing. If you use a tissue, throw it out in the trash and wash your hands.
• Routinely clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Learn More

For more information, call the health department at 203-385-4090 or visit the following websites:

• CDC: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
• Connecticut Department of Public Health: portal.ct.gov/DPH/Public-Health-Preparedness/Main-Page/2019-Novel-Coronavirus