Let me start by saying that 2020 has been a year, ALREADY. While I have and continue to be, incredibly blessed, there have been trying times for the country as well.

Currently, the US, and the world at large, is dealing with Coronavirus. What is the Coronavirus anyway?

A virus that actually surfaced in 2019, that is now a pandemic according to the world health organization. I, of course, am not a doctor but I did want to write this post to provide some helpful links in a one-stop-shop because I vehemently despise misinformation, fear, and panic, and there is a lot going around.

What is a pandemic anyway?

To understand a “pandemic” it may be helpful to understand what an endemic, outbreak, and epidemic are as well.

• An endemic condition is present at a fairly stable, predictable rate among a group of people—the observed number of cases is approximately the same as the number expected. The group of people might be all the inhabitants of a town or county or larger areas like countries or continents. 
• An outbreak is when there is a sudden increase in the number of people with a condition greater than is expected. Either there are more cases of an endemic condition than expected or the condition is found somewhere it has not been before, so a single case can be an outbreak. Outbreaks are limited to relatively small areas. Now onto an epidemic.
• An epidemic is an outbreak that spreads over a larger geographical area.
• An epidemic that spreads globally is a pandemic.

For more information and detailed examples please see this article.

How is the Virus

Spread?

Simply put the virus spreads mainly from person to person. The virus is also spread via droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Since the virus spreads person to person, that is why social distancing is recommended.

How can we prevent the spread of the virus?

According to the CDC (Centers of Disease Control), the best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.

Is there a Vaccine?

There is currently no vaccine for the virus. See this link for more information.

What does the term “flatten the curve” mean?

Initially, this virus was discussed among politicians and media news outlets and many felt the issue itself was politicized. Due to the widespread effects around the globe, we are seeing bipartisan requests for action. (see this article by Newt Gingrich support for drastic action.) Social distancing helps us flatten the curve, or reduce the spread of the virus. See this amazing article, which loads of statistical data on why numbers of people with the virus will likely increase before they decrease, and for detailed information on the science of exponential growth and how to mitigate that growth.

I do not believe in panic. But I do believe in wisdom, making sound choices, and acting in a PROACTIVE and not REACTIVE manner. Through social distancing and PLANNING.

Here are a few ideas to assist you in planning for the days ahead:

1. The Lilly Cares Foundation, Inc. (“Lilly Cares”) is a nonprofit organization that offers a patient assistance program to help qualifying patients receive Lilly medications at no cost. (I have linked their website here.)
2. The National Alliance on Mental Illness has put together a guide on handling your mental health during the coronavirus. (I have linked the guide here.)
3. Use Facetime and zoom to communicate with family and friends. Zoom is set to give their videoconferencing resources to schools for FREE. (I have linked an article on this here. )
4. Scholastic is offering FREE online courses for kids during the school closures. There is no sign up required and the resources will be available indefinitely. (Here is the link to the scholastic website.)
5. Many grocery stores need additional help. If you are unable to work due to disruptions caused by the coronavirus this may be a good place to start. If you live in Texas, here are links to the grocery stores that are hiring. Kroger job portal: job.kroger.com H-E-B job portal: careers.heb.com Randall’s job portal: albertsonscompanies.com/careers/randalls-careers.html
6. Take advantage of free delivery and free pickup at many grocery stores and restaurants around the country to minimize your social interaction.
7. Some Schools are offering FREE lunch and breakfast to students to assist parents and families. Check-in with your local district to see if they are providing these resources.
8. Check-in with credit cards and airline companies regarding reimbursement during this pandemic.
9. Interest rates have been lowered and so far student loan debt interest is suspended. Contact your mortgage lender or student loan company for more information.
10. One difficult aspect of self-quarantine is entertainment. Well the Metropolitan Opera is offering a FREE series of encore Live in HD presentations streamed on the company website during the coronavirus closure. (I have provided a link to the website here.) If you love museums, there are many providing FREE virtual tours. (I have provided a link here with more information.)

I hope that you and your family remain safe and healthy. If you have any additional resources, feel free to share them below in the comments. Additionally, my law firm, Jackson Walker LLP, is available to help businesses that may need advice in the wake of this unprecedented pandemic. Visit us on the web at www.jw.com feel and free to email me if you have any specific LEGAL questions at [email protected]. (For other concerns or questions as always email me at [email protected])