PRESS RELEASE

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Columbus East High School

Haylee Snyder

RELEASE DATE:

February 5th, 2020

STOPPING THE SPREAD: COVID-19 EDITION

[Columbus, IN, February] — At the beginning of March 2020, the nation was struck with a destructive virus resulting in millions of deaths across the country. Covid-19 or the Coronavirus is spread through person-to-person contact, typically from respiratory droplets produced when sneezing or coughing. As daunting as the virus is, many measures have been discovered for controlling the spread. 

The three most important ways to stop the spread of the virus are wearing a mask, remaining six feet in distance away from others, and avoiding crowds and contact with people. It is important to note that a mask should be worn at all times, even when the proper distance from another person is followed. Wearing a mask that fits properly is essential that way the mouth and nose can be covered. Staying home is a successful way of avoiding contracting COVID-19; however, people should avoid being around anyone not feeling well even if they are within the same household. Avoid poorly ventilated areas and large crowds, such as restaurants, gyms, group-gatherings, and grocery stores. When ensuring safety, make sure to wash hands thoroughly for a minimum of twenty seconds. Make sure to cover coughs and sneezes, clean and disinfect heavily touched surfaces, and monitor daily health. 

Columbus Regional Health has averaged 64% in the number of beds occupied by Coronavirus patients. As cases continue to rise, it is important now than ever to ensure safety and follow proper protocol. Stopping the spread of the virus takes the majority of people to conform to these guidelines. It would lessen the strain held on the local hospital and limit the chances of contracting or spreading the virus to others. A number of community members, such as the elderly, are at higher risk of contracting Covid-19. We must look out for one another in controlling the spread and keeping each other healthy. 

As we roll into 2021, there is an immense opportunity to follow these guidelines. As we wear our mask, social distancing, and avoid large gatherings, the chances increase for getting back to the life everyone knew before March of last year.

10:22 am

Haylee Snyder