What We Know, and Resources Available to Stay Up-to-Date on COVID-19

by Karsten Doan, volunteer contributor, American Red Cross North Texas Region

The American Red Cross North Texas region continues to provide life-saving services to the community. COVID-19 has undoubtedly challenged and changed everyone’s interactions and communications. Embracing this new environment, the American Red Cross has adapted its delivery of educational and assistance programs to meet the virtual needs.

During times of uncertainty, it’s important to know what sources to trust. We’ve pulled together a list of reliable resources, you can turn to for up-to-date information regarding COVID-19 and provided ways you can help during this time.

Here are RELIABLE resources that you can visit to stay up-to-date with the current global pandemic:

According to the World Health Organization, COVID-19 “is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus. Most people infected with the COVID-19 virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment. Older people, and those with underlying medical problems like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, and cancer are more likely to develop serious illness.

The best way to prevent and slow down transmission is be well informed about the COVID-19 virus, the disease it causes and how it spreads. Protect yourself and others from infection by washing your hands or using an alcohol based rub frequently and not touching your face.”

On April 15th, Governor Abbott stated the State of Texas has had 18,923 confirmed COVID-19 cases and 477 deaths.

Here are links to reliable websites to learn more:

If you are feeling ill and are showing signs and symptoms of COVID-19, please call your primary care physician to determine what your next steps are or use one of the many teledoc services available.

If you need help with food, mental health support or other resources, please visit:

*Your child’s local school district may albo be offering mobile feeding that could benefit your family during this stressful time.

VIRTUAL COVID-19 SUPPORT CARE
A Virtual Family Assistance Center has launched to support families struggling with loss and grief due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Many families have experienced a disruptive bereavement and grief process due to restrictions related to COVID-19. To help, the American Red Cross has set up a virtual team of specifically trained mental health, spiritual care and health services volunteers who can provide free and confidential support. People can visit redcross.org/get-help to access a support hub with special virtual programs, information, referrals and services to support families in need.

RESILIENCY WORKSHOP FOR MILITARY COMMUNITIES
The American Red Cross released a COVID-19 specific stress-relieving online program for military families and veterans. Military spouses, injured veterans, and their caregivers are particularly vulnerable to feelings of isolation, especially during this season of separation. This program advises on managing stress, health, supporting children, creating goals, and making a family communication plan. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org/caregivers

Want to help?

Red Cross Caseworkers serve clients who have either been affected by a recent disaster (including home fires) or who are members of our armed forces. Through virtual means, our teams follow-up with clients regularly, providing resources and support as they navigate their path toward wholeness. Join our team of caseworkers with our Service to the Armed Forces and/or Disaster Recovery Team and help support those in need! To sign up or learn more, visit www.redcross.org/volunteer.

The American Red Cross North Texas Home Fire Campaign is made possible thanks to the generous support from regional partner including, Aeristo; Alcon Foundation; Apartment Association of Greater Dallas; Bj Coffman; Captial One Bank; Dian Graves Owen Foundation; ISNetworld; Knightvest Residential; Lehigh Hanson; State Farm and Wells Fargo.

Always remember, we are all in this together. The Red Cross will continue to monitor the COVID-19 pandemic while continuing to carry out our lifesaving mission.