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How to care for someone with coronavirus

Posted at 3:10 PM, Apr 08, 2020
and last updated 2020-04-09 07:05:51-04

HAMPTON ROADS, Va. - As the number of coronavirus cases in Virginia continues to rise, more and more people in Hampton Roads are living with someone suffering from the virus.

Experts say if you are living with someone with COVID-19, you should make sure to keep them out of common living areas like the living room and the kitchen.

Experts say you should put the patient in a room by themselves, with their own bathroom if at all possible.

Dr. Ryan Light with Tidewater Physicians Multispecialty Group said people in isolation should keep their minds busy by reading or other similar activities. He said to remember this is only a short-term situation.

Experts suggest if you are caring for someone with the coronavirus, you should put food outside the door. If you have to go into the room, you want to wear a mask or cover on your face, change your clothes and avoid sharing personal household items, like dishes, towels and bedding.

The CDC says wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after interacting with the sick person.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

Every day, clean all surfaces that are touched often, like counters, tabletops and doorknobs

Wash laundry thoroughly and wear gloves.

Dr. Light said the coronavirus can be stressful for so many.

“All the things that are going on are difficult right now because it’s creating anxiety,” said Dr. Light.

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