beatys9

I am in Washington State and live about a mile from the 'epicenter' nursing home where over 35 people have died. This is indeed serious and we are largely staying home & working from home. Health experts believe the virus has been circulating in the Seattle area since at least January so we likely have many folks who have it and do not know.

While young & healthy folks recover, sometimes without ever knowing they had it, it is dangerous to seniors and people with compromised immune systems. People with diabetes and a history of respiratory problems are also at higher risk. In Washington State, all events are cancelled through March and most likely much longer. (I work in the event business and have been taking cancellations since late February) Many businesses are closed unless they are essential such as grocery & pharmacy. Seniors and immune compromised folks may grocery shop before anyone else on Tuesdays & Thursdays from 7-9am to avoid crowds at select stores. Schools & church services are canceled. Restaurants are take out only - no gatherings of more than 10 people. Bars & cafes closed.

My daughter has been exposed at work and now she must stay away from our house as both my DH and I are considered vulnerable and though she will likely be fine if she gets sick, she could expose us before she is symptomatic. I'm afraid we are seeing here what much of the country will see soon. Stay home, wash hands, and sew! Time for a new project or two! They keep saying here, "Plan, don't panic".