Coronavirus: Global Emergency

Dear LULAC Family,

Please know that we are very aware of the rapidly-changing situation concerning Coronavirus (COVID-19) and its effects worldwide including the United States and Puerto Rico. Also, we are monitoring the most reliable sources of medical information updates available including the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

LULAC leaders in each state are making decisions about best practices they will undertake to protect the health, safety and well-being of our members. Please discuss this matter in your state and region with your leadership to make the best assessment possible based upon the facts available.

In the interim, below are some of the most Frequently Asked Questions followed by links to the CDC for additional important information:

WHAT IS THE CORONAVIRUS
It is a respiratory disease first detected in China and which has now been detected in almost 90 locations internationally, including in the United States. There are many types of human coronaviruses including some that commonly cause mild upper-respiratory tract illnesses. COVID-19 is a new disease, caused by a novel (or new) coronavirus that has not previously been seen in humans. There is presently no vaccine for COVID-19.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF CORONAVIRUS
Current symptoms reported for patients with COVID-19 have included mild to severe respiratory illness with fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. People with pre-existing conditions such as those who suffer from diabetes, heart disease, a weakened immune system or are 70-years or older are especially at risk. However, younger people may also experience symptoms of COVID-19.

HOW DOES THE CORONAVIRUS SPREAD
The virus that causes COVID-19 is spreading from person-to-person. Someone who is actively sick with COVID-19 can spread the illness to others. That is why CDC recommends that these patients be isolated either in the hospital or at home (depending on how sick they are) until they are better and no longer pose a risk of infecting others.

HOW CAN YOU PROTECT YOURSELF
There are simple, everyday precautionary actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including: • Avoid close contact with people who are sick. • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. • Stay home when you are sick. • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe. • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. • If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

DOES WEARING A FACEMASK PREVENT CORONAVIRUS
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19. Face masks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings (at home or in a healthcare facility).

For more information:
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About LULAC
The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is the nation’s largest and oldest civil rights volunteer-based organization that empowers Hispanic Americans and builds strong Latino communities. Headquartered in Washington, DC, with 1,000 councils around the United States and Puerto Rico, LULAC’s programs, services and advocacy address the most important issues for Latinos, meeting critical needs of today and the future. For more information, visit https://lulac.org/