Outbreak of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)

We are closely monitoring the outbreak of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in our state and following the latest guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Chapin’s leaders will abide by public health officials’ advice to remain calm and fully informed in order to make rational decisions. With reasonable protocols that we normally take to stay healthy and by communicating best practices and solutions, we can continue to respond appropriately.

We know this is a stressful time and people want to know what they can do right now to protect themselves and their families. That’s why we are highlighting some everyday health and preparedness steps from the Red Cross that we can all take now.

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (the time it would take you to sing ‘Happy Birthday’ twice) or, if soap is not available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw it in the trash. If a tissue isn’t available, cough or sneeze into your elbow, not your hands.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Follow CDC’s recommendations for using facemasks, which is for people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of disease to others, and for health workers and caregivers in close settings.
• Practice healthy habits: get sleep, eat nutritious food, drink fluids, be physically active and manage stress.
• Influenza and pneumococcal disease are the leading causes of vaccine-preventable respiratory illness in the U.S., so protect yourself with an annual flu vaccine and if eligible, the pneumonia vaccine.

• Obtain at least a 2-week supply of food staples, household and sanitary products, if asked to stay home (a best practice to increase your preparedness for any hazard).
• Keep current prescription medications in regular supply, with at least a 30-day supply of needed health items.
• Learn how your local public health authorities will provide guidance to your community and stay informed.
• Learn how your children’s school or daycare, and your workplace plan to handle a possible outbreak. Create a plan to accommodate any closings, event cancellations or postponements.
• If you care for older adults or children, plan and prepare for caring for them, should they or you become sick.

The most accurate information on Coronavirus can be found on a website managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control at https://scdhec.gov/health/infectious-diseases/viruses/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19.

Additionally, free screenings for people who believe they are symptomatic are available from the Medical University of South Carolina at https://campaigns.muschealth.org/virtual-care/index.html or PRISMA Health at www.Prismahealth.org/virtual-visit (use promo code COVID19.) Lexington Medical Center has additional information available on their blog.

In terms of the travel industry, the US Centers for Disease Control has tips on their website: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html.

We understand that this pandemic has long reaching effects and our small business community will likely be impacted. One Chapin business owner has set up a forum to share best practices and continue the dialogue. You can find the forum at: https://www.thecoffeeshelf.com/forum/small-business-strategies/corvid-19-precautions

At this point in time, the Town of Chapin offices and events remain as previously scheduled. Information right now is fluid and subject to change, and we will regularly notify you of news as it develops. We will continue to use our existing media channels to provide information: the local cable network channel – Channel 2, our website- www.chapinsc.com, and our Facebook page- Town of Chapin SC.

Please remain informed and follow best practices to keep you, your families and our community safe. If you should have any questions or comments, please contact communications@chapinsc.com .