What to do to stop the spread if you or a loved one catches COVID-19

First responders and others on the front lines have gone to extreme measures to protect the community. When they go home, the same concerns about spreading the virus exist.

Since they don’t want to infect their loved ones, hotels and even RV owners have stepped up with housing.

But what if it’s your husband or wife and staying elsewhere isn’t an option?

It’s a scary time for everyone.

“I literally have been terrified as to what to do,” said paramedic Scott Clark.

What happens if you get sick? How do you protect the rest of the family from catching COVID-19 too?

You’ll basically need similar to having your own “stay-at-home” order but in your own home.

Doctors recommend isolating yourself to one bedroom in the home, preferably with a bathroom attached.

You should have your own tissues, paper towels, hand soap, disinfecting wipes and, of course, a mask for any time you need to step out of the bedroom.

Doctors say that should only be for the bathroom.

If you are taking care of someone who is sick, you’ll also need a mask and gloves. This is for every time you need to walk in the room with you sick loved one and for cleaning.

Everything that person touches will need to be wiped down and disinfected. Even then, you’ll still need to keep washing your hands often and for at least 20 seconds.

Your toiletries, from your toothbrush down to even your towel, should be separated from the shared bathroom.

If you’re sick and washing your hands, doctors say you should dry your hands with a paper towel so it can get straight into the trash.

Doctors also recommend having a thermometer and an at-home pulse oximeter. This measures heart rate and blood oxygen levels which can tell you how your lungs are doing.

Of course, keep in touch with your doctor if symptoms get worse.

If you’re sick, you’ll be spending a lot of time alone, so you’ll want to have plenty of things to keep you entertained.

Also don’t forget to drink plenty of fluids while you are recovering.