In case you’re just joining us, business as usual is out the window for a while. Unfortunately the best scenario here, is one that, by slowing spread/transmission of COVID-19, helps to avoid massively overwhelming our hospital system. This will also inevitably increase the duration of this outbreak.

This post is not about estimating the time frame. I suspect the best answer to that question right now is “longer than you think”.

No, I set out to write this post to encourage you during this time. None of us has lived through anything like this before, something so potentially life changing that it drove me to blogging. And no one really knows how to do it, how to get through it. Some are very scared right now. No one quite feels ready. This has led some to do silly and damaging things like hoard food and household supplies. It’s led others to take unprecedented steps toward new models of business and education.

Keep in mind:

There is good evidence to suggest that symptoms of COVID-19 are must more likely to be present as we age, and that under 30 the infection may be present without any symptoms at all. This means that these stay at home recommendations apply to everyone, not just those with obvious symptoms.
Minimize your own risk. As much as is in your power, that your job and household needs allow, stay home. I know you keep hearing this. If you have to go out, keep physically isolated and wash well when you get back home. By the way, going to the store to buy food for the next day only is not worth the risk, you can’t be heading to the store every day. I’m looking at you, baby boomers buying only 5 items at Meijer.
Minimize the risk of others. Consider checking with your neighbors and family before you go out to see if you can turn three trips into one.