The novel Coronavirus also known as COVID-19 has become a global pandemic. Originating from Wuhan, China, COVID-19 has rapidly spread to every continent with the exception of Antarctica [1]. Although the Chinese government had attempted to contain the novel Coronavirus by quarantining the city of Wuhan, their attempts proved futile due to their sheer population. Despite their best efforts, COVID-19 spread to many countries. COVID-19 has symptoms that resemble the common flu. Some of these symptoms include fever, body ache, and dry cough [2]. These symptoms are extremely contagious and any individual who comes into contact with anyone with COVID-19 is at risk for contracting the virus. In some cases, there were no symptoms at all.  The virus can spread to any individual within a 6 ft radius via respiratory droplets or through touching a contaminated surface and then touching the eyes, mouth, or nose. The virus can be transmitted to anyone for up to 14 days [2]. 

As the COVID-19 pandemic is spreading across the nation, many businesses and schools have shut down in order to encourage students and employees to stay at home. Amusement parks and gyms have also followed suit in order to reduce crowd gatherings and promote social distancing. Social Distancing is when an individual maintains a physical distance from people in order to prevent the spread of a contagious disease [3]. With COVID-19, it is recommended that individuals stay at home or maintain a distance of 6 feet from people if they have to go shopping [3]. Initially, parties and gatherings were limited to only 10 people however, in some states, gatherings have temporarily been suspended in order to prompt citizens to stay at home. Social Distancing, although not mandated in the US like countries such as India and China, has been encouraged. As a result, many non-essential businesses have temporarily closed alongside popular venues such as movie theaters and mall outlets.

Seniors above the age of 60 and those with underlying health conditions are at greatest risk. Social Distancing aims to limit gatherings so that people do not unknowingly spread COVID-19 to the elders and those with compromised immune systems. 

Due to Social Distancing, many adults and children are staying at home. The sports industry and social gatherings have been brought to a temporary halt. As a result, many people are feeling restless and cooped up. Video games and Movies can only provide entertainment for a certain amount. Staying at home can become dull and monotonous after a while as we constantly require activities to occupy our minds. Social Gathering has promoted an almost pessimistic outlook of our current situation. What many people don’t realize is that we can leave an impact on our community and view these difficult times with a positive attitude. 

Here are some recommendations on what we can do to help our community and yourself stay positive.

1. Many Senior Centers are closed and as a result, the seniors are unable to be visited due to precautions taken to protect their health. Make a card for the seniors at the local senior center. They can range from a simple greeting card to even a drawing of a local place or setting. A simple card could help put a smile on a Senior’s face. 
2. Create cards with positive messages and distribute them to neighbors or friends. During these times, it is hard to be happy and optimistic. These cards could help brighten someone's day as well as provide you with an activity to keep you occupied.  
3. Find online activities to do. There are online volunteer opportunities that may be a great way to earn volunteer hours for high schoolers if needed while staying safe during these unprecedented times.  Many parents are struggling to work due to having a preschooler or toddler at home. Create an activity to help engage these children.
4. Although resources are running low, if there are any extra toiletry items or food that would not be consumed in your household, try to donate these to a food pantry or shelter. There many people who lack these basic necessities and are in great need of them during these difficult times
5. If an elderly neighbor needs assistance shopping, lend a helping hand. They are very susceptible to contracting the disease. Make sure to take proper precautions while shopping to maintain your own health and wellbeing as well. [4]
6. Donate money to health organizations. Health care workers are working around the clock to help treat patients. They are experiencing shortage of supplies such as masks, medicine, and ventilators. Donations could help them purchase new supplies in order to provide the best care they can towards the patients. [4]
7. It is important not to panic shopping. Although we would like to stock up on resources to help out our own families, we should not buy more items and supplies than we normally do. We should control the urge to buy more as many other families also need supplies as well. It is difficult for them to obtain the items they need as stores are experiencing a supply shortage. It is important to be considerate about others rather than simply focusing on your own well being and desires. 

If somebody in your household goes shopping make sure to have a “decontamination station” to place all the groceries and other items in order to clean them before they go into the refrigerator or house. Wash hands for 20 seconds with soap and try to refrain from rubbing the eyes, nose, or mouth. In addition, try to limit exposure by wearing a mask and gloves before you go outside.

It is also important to take care of yourself and to stay healthy. You can also work out at home while the gyms are closed. The gym is not the only place where we can practice fitness. Many people are getting creative and are making up their own home workouts. If you are bored do a couple of pushups, wall sits, or even plank. Exercise releases endorphins which can help relieve stress and help us stay active.

These are only a few options, there are plenty of ways to help make a positive impact on the community and help other individuals during these unprecedented times. The quarantine can be a way for us to try new things while staying at home, protecting the safety of ourselves and others. 

References

1. Christensen, Jen. “Coronavirus: Should You Be Worried?” CNN, Cable News Network, 18 Feb. 2020, www.cnn.com/2020/01/20/health/what-is-coronavirus-explained/index.html.
2. “Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 15 Apr. 2020, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/symptoms-causes/syc-20479963.
3. “Social Distancing, Quarantine, and Isolation.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4 Apr. 2020, www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/social-distancing.html.
4. Holdefehr, Katie. “7 Ways You Can Help Others During the Coronavirus Crisis.” Real Simple, 19 Mar. 2020, www.realsimple.com/work-life/life-strategies/ways-to-help-during-coronavirus-crisis.

By Anirudh Vaiyapuri