Coronavirus (COVID-19) NYC Survival Guide

Despite early hopes that the coronavirus could be contained, those hopes were dashed this week as cases were reported in dozens of new countries, including the U.S. The number of cases in the United States is now more than 75 with six deaths, both in Washington state. Globally, there are more than 90,000 cases and over 3,000 deaths in more than 60 countries. For NYC residents, the news got a lot more real this week when Governor Cuomo confirmed the state’s first coronavirus case, a woman in her 30s who had recently been to Iran. The New York Times later reported that the woman lived in Manhattan, where she was being kept in-home quarantine and was in a stable condition.

“Community spread is going to be real,” Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo said. “That is inevitable.”

At such a time as this, people everywhere are asking how they can protect themselves and their families against this new threat. Fortunately, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) is already marshaling a response and providing information.

Among this information is a list of items that every household should have. We’ve reprinted the list here plus a few extras you might need if you’re planning for a long stint in your home. As the old boy scout motto goes, always be prepared.

COVID 19 Stopping the Spread

Emergency Kit Checklist

A home emergency kit can come into use during any public health or severe weather emergency. It should have everything you and your family might need during an emergency in which you have to stay indoors for longer than usual. The U.S Department of Homeland Security recommends stocking up on enough supplies for at least two weeks. Make a list of everything you’ll need and tick them off as you fill up your emergency kit. Keep this list with the kit, so you’ll always know exactly what you have. The CDC also has a guide to preparing your home for a possible outbreak.

General Household Supplies

Every New York City household should have these items

• 2x pairs of latex gloves per person
• Cleansing agents or soap and antibiotic towelettes
• Thermometer
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Flashlights with extra batteries
• Plastic garbage bags and ties for personal sanitation
• A manual can opener
• Paper towels
• Toilet paper
• Battery-powered or hand-cranked radio with extra batteries
• Mess kits, paper plates, plastic cups, utensils
• Extra set of house keys and car keys
• A whistle to signal for help
• Towelettes or baby wipes
• A wench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Matches in a waterproof container
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape for sheltering in place
• Universal or wind-up cell phone charger
• Fire extinguisher
• Glasses and contact lens solution

Medical Supplies

Preventing the spread of coronavirus is your priority but don’t overlook the potential for less serious and far more common medical issues.

• Sterile dressing to stop bleeding from any cuts
• Cloth face masks
• Antibiotic ointment to prevent infection
• Adhesive bandages in a variety of sizes
• Burn ointment to prevent infection
• Eyewash solution to flush your eyes
• Prescription medications: such as insulin, heart medication, and asthma inhalers; try to take out at least a 30-day prescription. If you have a quantity limit, then see if your doctor can provide an exception form
• Prescribed medical supplies such as blood and glucose pressure monitoring equipment

Children Supplies

If you have young children, then ensure you have the means to keep them calm and busy

• Games, puzzles, books, and other things to keep them busy
• A favorite stuffed animal or blanket
• Toddler snacks
• Paper and pencil/marker/crayons
• Identification to be carried by each child in case they become separated
• Medical alert bracelet or necklace

Pet Supplies

Don’t forget about your pets if you have any.

• 2-week supply of pet food
• Food and water bowls
• Disposable litter trays for cats
• Cat litter, newspaper, or paper toweling
• Puppy pads
• Crate or sturdy carrier
• Toys and/or treats
• Blanket
• Extra collar with nametag and contact information
• Extra leash
• Medical records

Food and Water Supplies

The following should be considered the bare minimum, the more the merrier, so stock up!

• A 14-day supply of foodstuffs
• A 14-day supply of water (one gallon per person per day)
• Plenty of ready-to-eat foods like canned meat, canned fruits and vegetables, and ultra-high temperature milk (UHT Milk)
• High-energy foods such as peanut butter, nuts, dry cereal, granola, and crackers
• “Stress foods” such as hard candy or cookies

Clothing Supplies

You never know what might happen, so have appropriate clothing if you need to be evacuated or moved to a hospital or containment facility. Make sure you have one of each for every family member.

• A jacket or coat
• Long pants
• A long-sleeved shirt
• Sturdy shoes
• A hat and gloves
• A sleeping bag and a warm blanket

Money and Important Documents

If you or a family member gets sick, you’ll want to have all your important documents in order if needed. This will save time and leave you with one less thing to worry about.

• Emergency cash in small amounts (fives, tens, and twenty’s) and/or an ATM account that will let you get money from more than one financial institution
• Copies of important family documents such as medical records, insurance policies, ID cards, wills, social security cards, birth certificates, driver’s licenses, and bank records; should be kept in a waterproof portable container
• Up-to-date contact information on you and next of kin

In an abundance of caution given the uncertainties around coronavirus, I decided to work from home for the next few days and also encourage you to do so out of safety precautions until there is more clarity. It seems the next few days/week will likely bring more cases, and I would like to assess further the position we may or may not be. I will be making adjustments in real-time when needed. There is no need to panic, but safety is paramount. That said ELIKA is fully open for business as usual with caution.

An email sent 3/3/2020 by ELIKA Real Estate Founder Gea Elika

Steps You Can Take to Reduce Risk

Prevention is the best cure, and if we’re going to overcome this, we all need to start practicing good habits. By doing your bit, you can reduce the risk for yourself and the wider community.

1. Wash your hands frequently and wash for at least 20 seconds with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
2. Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
3. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
4. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
5. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
6. Stay home when you are sick. 

CDC Suggestions

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (the “CDC”) issued guidelines for simple things you can do to help minimize any possible risks:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Follow CDC’s recommendations for using a facemask.
  • CDC does not recommend that people who are well wearing a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19.
  • Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings (at home or in a health care facility).
• 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 soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

We will continue to closely monitor this situation, and if further actions become necessary, we will take those actions and notify all readers immediately.  In the meantime, for anyone looking for more information about the virus, see attached from the NYC Department of Health and the CDC. Additional information is also available on the CDC website at CDC Website https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus

Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly

This one can’t be stressed enough. Wash your hands regularly with clean running water and lots of soap or hand sanitizer. Don’t rush it. Spend at least 30 seconds rubbing your hands, and don’t forget your forearms, between your fingers and under your fingernails. Get into the habit of doing this every time you come back from going out in public.

Don’t shake hands

Avoid touching your face

Also, make an effort to avoid touching your face, eyes, nose, or lips with your unwashed hands (try counting how many times you try to do this in a day, you’ll be surprised!).

Avoid close contact with those who are sick

Where possible, avoid large gatherings. If someone near you does cough, ask them to put on a facemask or otherwise cover their mouth. If they refuse, then keep at least 3 feet between yourself and them. The CDC does not recommend that people who are well should wear a face mask. Data indicates that it makes little to no difference unless you’re in regular close contact with infected patients. However, a facemask should be worn if you are showing any symptoms. The most effective type is the so-called N95 masks, which block 95% of very small particles.

Note that certain types of facial hair can prevent respirators from working effectively. The CDC has created this infographic to show which facial hairstyles are riskier than others.

Practice other good health habits

Taking good care of yourself will go a long way towards preparing you for the worst. Ensure you get plenty of sleep each night, exercise regularly, manage your stress levels, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious foods.

Stay Informed and follow advice from your healthcare professional

This is a developing situation, so stay informed. Follow the advice from your doctor, the CDC, and the Pubic Health Department. They are the best place to advise on what people should be doing in your area to protect themselves.

CDC – New York City at a Glance

What Should I do If I Show Symptoms?

If you develop a fever, cough, or shortness of breath, then stay at home and call your doctor right away. The CDC has a full set of guidelines on what to do if you have coronavirus or think you do. Your doctor will work with the Public Health Department and the CDC to determine if you need to be tested. Remain calm and follow any recommendations you are given, such as wearing a facemask, avoiding large gatherings, and staying inside as much as possible. If you have any questions, the CDC has also prepared an FAQ.

Further Reading

For the most up-to-date and official information, visit the CDC and WHO websites below.

• CDC Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
• World Health Organization

CDC Coronavirus Map: Tracking the Spread of the Outbreak

The CDC reports the virus has infected more than 92,100 people in at least 70 countries.

Coronavirus Map: COVID-19 Global Cases by Johns Hopkins

World map of infected regions.