Federal, state, and local health officials concede that the spread of the coronavirus may be difficult to contain. St. Clair County Medical Health Officer Dr. Annette Mercatante tells WPHM the best prevention strategy is self-isolation and personal hygiene. “You can’t prevent a virus from entering a community, but you can slow down its transmission,” said Mercatante. She recommends frequent hand washing, covering coughs, and staying home when you’re sick.
Dr. Mercatante also says local schools, hospitals, and governments are currently reviewing their pandemic plans. “Right now it’s preparation,” said Mercatante. “What do you need to stay in your home for a few weeks?” She encourages people to stock up on items such as medication in the event that you cannot go out in public. She says the health department does have plans in place if there is a spread in the local area. Mercatante says the more serious the scenario, the greater the possibility is for disruption to our everyday lives.
