What You Should Know

Background

In December 2019, a novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) was detected by world physicians. COVID-19 is caused by a virus (SARS-CoV-2) that is part of the larger family of viruses termed coronaviruses. Recently, community-wide transmission of COVID-19 has occurred in the United States, including New York where the number of both persons under investigation and confirmed cases are rapidly increasing. It is therefore directed that any gathering with 50 or more participants be cancelled or postponed. The White House is also urging everyone to avoid discretionary travel, not to socialize in groups of more than 10 people, and to practice good hygiene. 

The health of our members and staff is Venture House’s utmost priority. With this in mind, Venture House will take the precautionary step of closing our physical clubhouse locations temporarily to encourage the practice of social distancing. While the Clubhouses are closed, we are still active.

Symptoms

Symptoms of COVID-19 can include fever, cough or shortness of breath. An infection can result in death, but that is a rare outcome. Most people with COVID-19 will have mild symptoms. People who are at most risk for severe illness are those who have health conditions including:

• Chronic lung disease
• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• Cancer
• A weakened immune system

Prevention

As of March 2020, the Health Department recommends the following precautions to slow the spread of COVID-19:

• Stay home if you are sick. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or sleeve when sneezing or coughing — do not use your hands.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Do not touch your face with unwashed hands.
• Do not shake hands. Instead, wave or elbow bump.
• If you have family or friends who are elderly, have compromised immune systems or chronic respiratory or coronary issues, do not visit them if you feel sick. Stay home and keep your loved ones safe.
• Consider telecommuting, biking or walking to work if possible.
• Consider staggering working hours. For example, instead of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., change some work hours to 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. or 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or disinfecting wipes.
• Get your flu shot. Although the flu shot will not protect you from COVID-19, it will help prevent the flu which has similar symptoms to this coronavirus.

Health Care and Testing

If you are experiencing fever, cough or shortness of breath and traveled to an area where COVID-19 is spreading, or you have had close contact with someone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19, call your health care provider. Your provider will work with the Health Department to determine if you need testing.

If you need help finding a health care provider, call 311. HOTLINE: 888-364-3065

What is considered a essential service in New York

Where to find more up to date information on COVID-19 in NYC

For further information: New York State Department of Health’s COVID-19 Webpage https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/coronavirus/ 

Local health department contact information can be found at: https://www.health.ny.gov/contact/contact_information/index.htm 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Webpage: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/

White House Coronavirus Guidelines for America:

https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/03.16.20_coronavirus-guidance_8.5x11_315PM.pdf

Those looking for resources for New Yorkers with Disabilities during COVID-19 should see the new web page from the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities:
https://www1.nyc.gov/site/mopd/resources/covid-19-resources-for-people-with-disabilities.page
The page contains information on the following: