Survivalism is about staying prepared, and the essence of it is that you stay rational and do not panic. Here are some general advice on the virus pandemic from the World Health Organization. Stay calm, informed, and careful.
Can I catch COVID-19 from pets?
No. There is no evidence that companion animals or pets such as cats and dogs have been infected or could spread the virus that causes COVID-19.
"There is no evidence that pet animals can be a source of infection of COVID-19. The general practice of washing our hands after touching a puppy or a dog—that’s normal hygiene. Under no circumstances should owners abandon their dogs, cats, or other pets because of COVID-19 fears." - American Kennel Club
Is it safe to receive packages from areas where COVID-19 has been reported?
Yes. The likelihood of an infected person contaminating commercial goods is low and the risk of catching the virus that causes COVID-19 from a package that has been moved, travelled, and exposed to different conditions and temperature is also low.
Prevention:
1. Wash your hands frequently.
2. Maintain social distancing (1m/3ft) between yourself and anyone coughing or sneezing.
3. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth to prevent the risk of virus transferring to your body.
4. Cover your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze.
5. Stay at home if you feel unwell with mild symptoms and allow medical facilities to operate more effectively by protecting yourself and others from possible COVID-19 and other viruses.
6. If you develop a fever, cough and breathing difficulty, seek medical advice promptly.
7. Keep up to date on the latest virus hotspots and avoid traveling to these places, especially if you are an older person or have diabetes, heart or lung disease.
High Risk Groups:
Older persons and persons with pre-existing medical conditions (such as high blood pressure, heart disease, lung disease, cancer or diabetes) appear to develop serious illness more often than others.
Vaccine, Drug and Medical Treatment:
To date, there is no vaccine and no specific antiviral medicine. However, those affected should receive care to relieve symptoms. Possible vaccines and some specific drug treatments are under investigation. They are being tested through clinical trials.
Ineffective Measures:
Smoking, wearing multiple face masks, taking antibiotics.
Should I worry about COVID-19?
Illness due to COVID-19 infection is generally mild, especially for children and young adults. However, it can cause serious illness: about 1 in every 5 people who catch it need hospital care. It is therefore quite normal for people to worry about how the COVID-19 outbreak will affect them and their loved ones.
Want to learn more about preparedness? Watch this tutorial from MCS Dog Training on putting together a K-9 First Aid Kit.
Note from veteran trainer George Matheis: "This is not intended to be a comprehensive list of contents for your K-9 First Aid Kit, but instead some of the cheapest and most common items that can save yours, or your dog’s life in an emergency."
