Everyone knows we are in the midst of a pandemic. Not everyone knows where to turn for credible information. Unfounded, inaccurate information only stokes fear and panic.

Not knowing where to go for resources and information can also be frustrating. We reviewed a variety of sites we thought might be helpful for you at this time.

 

I have questions about coronavirus. Where can I look for answers?

The Novel Coronavirus: How to Keep Yourself and Loved Ones Safe. https://safer-america.com/the-novel-coronavirus-what-it-is-and-how-to-keep-yourself-and-loved-ones-safe/

As coronavirus spreads, many questions and some answers. https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/coronavirus-resource-center

 

How can I learn more about Social Distancing?

Social Distancing. https://safer-america.com/social-distancing/

COVID-19: Understanding Quarantine, Isolation and Social Distancing in a Pandemic.

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/covid-19-understanding-quarantine-isolation-and-social-distancing-in-a-pandemic/

 

Where can I go to find the latest statistics on the number of cases worldwide?

Coronavirus COVID-19 Global Cases by the Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University. https://www.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/bda7594740fd40299423467b48e9ecf6

What to Know About the Coronavirus Outbreak in 19 Charts and Maps (WHO and Johns Hopkins data). https://www.businessinsider.com/coronavirus-in-charts-covid-19-symptoms-spread-deaths-warnings-2020-2#the-coronavirus-most-seriously-affects-older-people-9

 

Where to find information on what the United States government is saying about the coronavirus for American citizens:

CDC. Cases in the U.S. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/cases-updates/cases-in-us.html

CDC. Coronavirus (COVID-19). https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

 

Is it True That Americans Will Receive a Stimulus Check From the Government? Where Can I Find Information About That?

It is true that, based on your income, stimulus checks will be sent out. IRS.gov has the latest updates on when these checks will be sent out to those who need relief. https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus

Where to go for up to date information for your particular state:

Map: Tracking The Spread Of The Coronavirus In The U.S. https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2020/03/16/816707182/map-tracking-the-spread-of-the-coronavirus-in-the-u-s

 

Several government, public health, and science-based websites with myth-busting information on what to do and not do to protect yourself from coronavirus:

COVID19 Myths & Facts: FEMA Steps Up. http://clevelandbanner.com/stories/covid-19-myths-facts-fema-steps-up,110099

World Health Organization Coronavirus Disease Advice for the Public: Myth Busters. https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public/myth-busters

WHO: Q&A on coronaviruses (COVID-19). https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/q-a-coronaviruses

 

I have heard that using Ibuprofen can increase COVID-19 symptoms. Is that true?

No. The latest update as of 3/19/2020 from the FDA states that the FDA is aware of news reports stating the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, could worsen coronavirus disease (COVID-19).  At this time, FDA is not aware of scientific evidence connecting the use of NSAIDs, like ibuprofen, with worsening COVID-19 symptoms.

 

I need parent or caregiver resources for coping with the coronavirus (English, Spanish, Chinese).

Parent/Caregiver Guide to Helping Families Cope with the Coronavirus Disease. https://www.nctsn.org/resources/parent-caregiver-guide-to-helping-families-cope-with-the-coronavirus-disease-2019

 

How to find help for managing stress and anxiety:

Most doctors, and of course therapists, are providing telehealth services for those who need it. There are also some helpful resources online at the following site locations:

COVID-Related Stress: The Effects of Social Isolation. https://safer-america.com/covid-related-stress-the-effects-of-social-isolation/

CDC: Managing Anxiety and Stress. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/managing-stress-anxiety.html

Psychology Today: What is Anxiety? https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/anxiety

Worried and Anxious About the Coronavirus? Psychologists Offer Advice on How to Cope. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/your-personal-renaissance/202003/worried-and-anxious-about-the-coronavirus

Talking to Kids About the Coronavirus. https://childmind.org/article/talking-to-kids-about-the-coronavirus/

Is there a list of online support groups and other resources available?

https://www.nami.org/getattachment/About-NAMI/NAMI-News/2020/NAMI-Updates-on-the-Coronavirus/COVID-19-Updated-Guide-1.pdf

 

References

Kampf, G., Todt, D., Pfaender, S., & Steinmann, E. (2020). Persistence of coronaviruses on inanimate surfaces and their inactivation with biocidal agents. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0195670120300463?via%3Dihub

Maragakis, L.L. (2020). Coronavirus disease 2019 vs the flu. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/coronavirus/coronavirus-disease-2019-vs-the-flu

ProQuest. (2020). Novel coronavirus (COVID-19): Authoritative and relevant resources. https://www.proquest.com/products-services/related/Coronavirus-Outbreak-Authoritative-Resources.html