Alexandra Blockton
ablockton@lc.edu

This virus is a pandemic spread throughout the entire world. Human beings  contracting the virus are becoming ill or dying.

According to The Alton Telegraph. on Tuesday, Mar. 17 , Madison County, IL. received its first case of coronavirus from a male individual in his late 30s. The man  had recently traveled to Europe in a high risk area of exposure to the virus, where he may have contracted the virus.` 

“If anyone is showing the key symptoms-shortness of breath, respiratory distress, a fever of 100.3 degrees Fahrenheit or higher or a cough-should seek medical treatment, ” said Toni Corona, a Madison County Health Department Administrator.

Many schools, businesses and essentially entire countires worldwide have been completely shut down until further notice. Local restaurants have required customers to only  take pick-up or delivery orders, since no one is allowed to sit and eat inside restaurants. As of now, Lewis and Clark Community College (L&C) has extended Spring Break until March 30, 2020. Circumstances may change by the time this paper is released. 

Students are highly encouraged to check Blackboard throughout this time and interact with their professors, instructors and teachers via email. For students receiving counseling services, please call in or email if you have any concerns or issues with your counselor. 

Individuals have nearly cleaned all of the stores’ groceries and toiletries, out by purchasing everything by the bulk at local Walmarts, Targets, Sam’s Clubs, Schnucks stores, etc. The excessive purchasing of toilet paper has concerned many.

Practicing social distancing is of everyone able to practice it at this time. Social distancing actions are taken to restrict when and where people can gather to stop or slow the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Social distancing is implemented by limiting large groups of people coming together. 

“Please call your health provider; do not show up at the emergency rooms. Do not show up at the health department. This is important. If you think you are ill, you need to talk to your health care provider,” said Toni Corona.

Protecting Yourself From the Coronavirus
From State of Illinois
Illinois Department of Public Health 

-Protect yourself and your community

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. If you do not have soap or water, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol. Avoid close contact with people who are sick and stay home when you are sick. 

-Universities and colleges

Consider suspending on-campus classes, implementing web-based learning and canceling large campus meetings and gatherings.

-Public Transit 

Avoid public transit if possible, and do not travel to areas with active outbreaks. 

-Change your daily habits

Avoid shopping at peak hours, and take advantage of delivery or pick-up services with retailers. 

-Work with your employer

Cooperate with leadership to change company practices, set up flexible shift plans, have employees telecommute and cancel large meetings or conferences. 

-Keep at least six feet between you and others. 

Avoid shaking hands as a social greeting. 

-Crowded places

Avoid crowded places. Events with 1,000 or more people have been cancelled. Community events with 250 or more are recommended to be canceled or postponed. Major sporting events are cancelled.