A Message from the Territorial Commander, Commissioner Brad Bailey
As you know, COVID-19 (Coronavirus) has developed quickly, and we want to assure you that The Salvation Army is committed to taking preventative measures to protect the safety of its officers, employees, volunteers, as well as the thousands of people we are privileged to serve each and every day throughout the USA Central Territory. The well-being of all is our top priority.
A Territorial Coronavirus Response Team has been created. This group meets regularly to review information, share updates and resources, and assist in the dissemination of important information and guidelines directly related to this pandemic.
Stay Informed
As the situation evolves, we continue to monitor and promote the directives from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in order to keep our communities as safe as possible. The CDC COVID-19 website -- https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html -- remains the most authoritative source for facts on the virus. This site is updated frequently and also includes travel advice.
Know the Facts
COVID-19 is an illness caused by a coronavirus. Human coronaviruses are common and are typically associated with mild illnesses, similar to the common cold. Symptoms of human coronaviruses may be very mild or more serious, and include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Difficulty breathing
Symptoms may take up to 14 days to appear after exposure to the virus. Coronaviruses are most commonly spread from an infected person through:
- Respiratory droplets when you cough or sneeze
- Close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands
- Touching something with the virus on it, then touching your eyes, nose or mouth before washing your hands
These viruses are not known to spread through ventilation systems or through water.
The best way to prevent the spread of infections is to:
- Practice good hygiene by washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth, especially with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Cough and sneeze into your sleeve and not your hands.
- Stay home if you are sick, have symptoms or have been exposed to reduce the risk of possible transmission to others.
Let’s continue to pray for our communities and the world, especially for the more isolated and vulnerable amongst us who might be impacted by the virus and to continue to live out our motto to serve and support the greater community in the name of Jesus.