From: S.J. Van Sickle (sjvan@csd.uwm.edu)
Date: Thu Apr 24 2003 - 15:59:12 MDT
On Thu, 24 Apr 2003, Robert J. Bradbury wrote:
> On Thu, 24 Apr 2003, Greg Burch wrote:
>
> > My question is this: What are the best strategies for addressing SARS in
> > the short, intermediate and long terms?
>
> In the short term one has to do what is already being done. Wear masks
> where appropriate, follow quarantine rules, etc.
To expand on these personal strategies if you are in an effected region:
1. Most important is to wash hands obsessively, especially before and
after using restrooms. Use disposable towels to dry hands, and use them
to open door leaving. Consider bringing antiseptic handywipes for
occasions when handwashing is not available.
2. Avoid touching face, mouth, eyes, etc. especially after shaking
hands, using doors, touching public surfaces. Avoid shaking hands, but it
is probably not worth offending anyone to do so. A little extra personal
space, again if it won't offend anyone, won't hurt.
3. A mask, rated N95, might be worth wearing in confined areas such as
aircraft. N95 masks are readily available at hardware and drug stores for
as little as $1 each.
4. Avoid crowds such as theatres, restaurants, public transportation.
Taxis and room service, but again probably not worth it if it interferes
with your business.
5. If you must visit a severely effected area, such as a hospital, wear
mask, gloves, follow the rules carefully. Do not violate any quarantines.
6. If anything other than supportive care (such as antivirals) starts
looking successful, and business takes to to an effected area without good
medical care (rural China as opposed to Toronto), consider meeting with
your physician to put together a travel kit of medications. Many people
do this now when visiting impoverished areas, bringing their own sterile
needles and such since local standards of medical hygiene can leave
something to be desired.
7. Don't panic. Chances of you visiting an effected area and catching
SARS are still pretty low...but this may be subject to change.
8. I am not a doctor, this isn't medical advise, etc. Just my own take
on the situation.
steve van sickle
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