MESA, Ariz —
Members of the Mesa Fire and Medical Department will begin doing welfare checks on elderly residents by phone as many of them stick close to home amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Crew members will be calling with information on how they can protect themselves from the virus and to ensure they have access to resources and assistance, according to a statement from the department.
This will be also an opportunity for elderly Mesa residents to have support and human connection during their time of self-isolation. Older people and those with underlying health conditions are highly encouraged to self-isolate as they have been found to be more vulnerable to the disease.
The individuals who will get a call are referred through social services and home safety education programs. The average age of these patients is 71 years old.
COVID-19 is believed to be primarily spread through coughs or sneezes.
It may be possible for the virus to spread by touching a surface or object with the virus and then a person touching their mouth, nose or eyes, but this is not thought to be the main method of spread, the CDC says.
You should consult your doctor if you traveled to an area currently affected by COVID-19 and feel sick with fever, cough or difficulty breathing.
There is no vaccine for the coronavirus, so the best way to prevent COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases is to:
- 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.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
You can text FACTS to 602-444-1212 to receive more information on the coronavirus and to ask questions.
