COVID-19 – The Evolving Story

We can’t turn on the TV without seeing the hype about the corona virus, now known as COVID-19.  So, why are we seeing these reactions to COVID-19?  The reasons I see in the literature are because it is an unknown strain of coronavirus, and it is unlike MERS and SARS that have been studied and are better understood.  COVID-19 is very easily spread, like the flu.  However, unlike the flu, it currently has a significantly higher hospitalization and mortality rate.  So, health agencies across the world are scrambling trying to collect data and determine the characteristics of this virus.  What demographics are hardest hit and why?  How long does the virus exist on a surface before it dies?  Can a vaccine be developed to prevent infection?  Once officials get these questions answered, more effective strategies can be developed. ​

​Stopping the spread of the virus is the only effective method we have of preventing more infections.  Current prevention recommendations have included washing hands more often, cleaning contaminated surfaces and staying away from large gatherings.  In response, trade shows and sporting events have been cancelled and churches and theatres are closing their doors for a week or two and are adopting a wait-and-see attitude.  Universities and K-12 have extended spring break and cancelled on-campus classes and are moving to online learning until things improve.  Recently, even bars and restaurants are being asked to restrict customers or only provide carryout. 
 
In the meantime, EHS professionals and HR departments should be following the recommendations from their local and state officials and from OSHA and MDHHS.  Those recommendations are aimed at “flattening the Curve” (curve of infection) which means slowing the spread of infection to avoid overwhelming the healthcare system.  See this article from the University of Michigan. 
 
So, the current infection curve for the COVID-19, that is the number of people becoming infected, is exhibiting an exponential increase.  So, as time goes on, we see an increasing number of infected people at an increasing rate.  The infection rate topic is illustrated in a Washington Post article that shows a simulated virus in some random, simulated settings.  It’s all based on computer models, but it illustrates the point about spreading of infection.  If we self-quarantine ourselves (within reason), even for a short while, we help slow down the spread of the disease. 
 
Agency Guidelines
OSHA’s guideline 3990 can be found at this OSHA link.  This guide provides lots of information about COVID-19 and recommendations for you to consider for inclusion in your Infectious Disease Preparedness and Response Plan (IDRP).  Some topics you will find interesting include:

1.  How a COVID-19 outbreak can affect workplaces
2. Absenteeism
3. Change in Patterns of Commerce
4. Interrupted Supply Chains
5. Elements of an IDRP
6. Occupational and Non-Occupational Risk Factors
7. Exposure Control Measures (administrative and engineering)
8. Options for Conducting Essential Operations with a Smaller Workforce
9. Developing Policies and Procedures for Employee Reporting of Sickness
10. Developing Policies and Procedures for Isolating Employees who show symptoms of infection.  

The MDHHS has Interim Guidelines for a variety of workplace, school, church and social settings.  They include:

1. Knowing the signs and symptoms of the disease
2. Washing hands and surfaces frequently
3. Special recommendations for high risk populations
4. Staying at home if you are sick
5. Be sure to maintain a supply of medications, food, and other essentials in your house.
6. Cancel or postpone large gatherings, conferences and sporting events (e.g. events with over 100 people).
7. Reduce in-person gatherings and activities, especially for organizations with individuals at risk of severe illness.
8. Consider offering video or audio of events.
9. Consider tele-learning or tele-work opportunities, where feasible.
10. Limit non-essential work travel.
11. If you care for a loved one living in a care facility, monitor the situation, ask about the health of the other residents frequently, and know the protocol if there is an outbreak.
12. Limit visitors at hospitals and other facilities to only those who are absolutely necessary and implement screening of visitors for temperature and respiratory symptoms.  

The bottom line for managing this disease is to be COVID-Wise, be prepared, avoid exposure and don’t spread it yourself.  As always, arm yourself with knowledge.  Keep up to date on the latest recommendations from your state and local officials.  Here are some other good COVID-19 sources of information to share with your executives and workers: 
     OSHA COVID-19 Web Page
     Center for Disease Control - COVID-19 Page
     MDHHS COVID-19 Web Page