Navigating National Parks during the Coronavirus Outbreak

It’s no secret that the National Parks have a large number of international visitors each year. With the current outbreak of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) many wonder how the National Parks are helping guard against visitors who might be infected with the Coronavirus. 

Alexandra Picavet, acting chief spokesperson for the National Park Service, stated on Tuesday,”While there have been no identified cases of Coronavirus in any national park, the NPS Office of Public Health and the U.S. Public Health Service officers assigned to the National Park Service are closely monitoring the situation and keeping staff informed, relying on the most updated data and information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.”

“Parks are informed to follow CDC guidance regarding preventative actions to help prevent the spread of viruses, particularly during flu and respiratory disease season.”

CDC Recommendations for Protecting Yourself

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been helping with global efforts to help prevent the spread of the virus. The federal organization is working closely with each state to help remind the public of simple steps that can be taken to protect yourself against the virus.

According to the CDC’s website, the immediate risk of this virus is believed to be low to the American public. They ask that everyone do their part to help them respond to this growing public health threat.

The CDC Recommends the following:

  • As it is currently the flu season, the CDC recommends getting a flu vaccine, including taking everyday preventive actions to help stop the spread of germs, and taking flu antivirals if prescribed by your healthcare provider.
  • Continue to practice safe hygiene habits; wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose without clean hands.

Coronavirus Symptoms

Confirmed cases of the coronavirus have reported the following symptoms from mild to severe intensity:

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Shortness of Breath

What to do if you are sick

If you are sick, regardless of if it is the coronavirus or not, follow the following steps to help prevent spreading your illness to those within your home and community, or area that you are visiting.

Stay Home, Expect to get Medical Attention

Those sick should restrict activities outside of your home, with the exception of leaving to receive medical care. Do not go to work, or public areas. Avoid using public transportations (park shuttle service), ride-sharing or taxis.

Separate yourself from others within your home, including animals

Avoid as much contact with others within your house as possible. Stay in a specific room away from others in your home. If available, use a separate bathroom.

Just like with your family members, avoid and restrict contact with pets and other animals while you are sick. If you have to be around your pets or animals, be sure to wash your hands before and after you interact with you pets, and if at all possible, wear a facemask.

Wear a Facemask

As uncomfortable as they may sound or be, wearing a facemask protects not only you but those around you. Wear a facemask when you are around other people (sharing a room or vehicle). If for whatever reason you are not able to wear a facemask (e.g., if it causes trouble breathing) those who are staying with you should not stay in the same room as you, or they themselves should wear a facemask when in the same area as you.

Cover your Coughs and Sneezes

Remember when your mother would tell you to cover your mouth when you would sneeze or cough? The same rule applies when you are sick. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw any used tissues in a lined trash can; immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains anywhere from 60-95% alcohol. 

Wash your hands often

Wash your hands as often as you can with soap and water. If you find yourself out in the park, clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains 60 to 95% alcohol, making sure you cover the entire surface of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

 

While the coronavirus is of international concern, the most important thing to remember are basic personal hygiene steps while out and about in the parks. Staying safe is important for making sure everyone has an enjoyable trip.

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