A message from Tom...

Resources for the coming weeks...

A message from Tom...   I hesitate to feed into the fear and terror that is sweeping across the globe but I know many people are worried about the current crisis. The important thing to remember is to remain calm and not panic. Certainly, in an effort to reduce the spread of any virus we should practice some social-distancing and better hygiene to avoid spreading any virus. The ultimate concern is that the COVID-19 virus is a novel virus (new) and currently our populations don't have any existing immunity which raises the risk of catching it. We also don't have any vaccine available so even more reason to limit social contact. All of the public closings are intended to limit the casual spread of this virus. This is all being done out of an abundance of caution. We should also take individual precautions. Stay home if you are sick. Wash your hands thoroughly for 20 seconds. Cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing. Use hand sanitizers. Limit contact with high contact surfaces - counters, doorknobs, handrails, elevator buttons, etc. Clean frequently touched surfaces daily. The goal is to limit the spread to limit the impact on our healthcare system. But, ultimately don't give in to the media or political hype either. Anyone pointing fingers is someone you need to avoid. Don't buy into the conspiracy theories either. Take advantage of this time and spend it with families and close friends. This is an opportunity to focus on what is actually important. Turn off the mainstream "news." Be discriminating on what information you consume. Listen only to actual medical experts and providers such as the CDC. Remember social media and the entertainment "news" channels are promoting the narratives they will make the most money from.  Its simple, the CDC recommends that for the next 8 weeks, organizers cancel or postpone in-person events that consist of 50 people or more throughout the U.S. Center for Disease Control & Prevention Virginia Department of Health Support as much as possible local, small businesses rather than the big chain restaurants and big-box stores. Remember that these are your neighbors. Make sure you check in on your elderly friends and family. They are likely the most concerned and also the most isolated. Ask them if they need anything and help if you can. Your servant, Tom Speciale VOLUNTEER DONATE HOME | ABOUT THOMAS | ISSUES | VOLUNTEER | DONATE Unsubscribe | Share on Facebook | Share on Twitter   Tom Speciale is a member of the United States Army Reserve. The use of his military rank, job titles, and photographs in uniform do not imply endorsement by the Department of Defense.   Paid for by Thomas Speciale for Virginia