Mitchell County | Health Scene | Summer 2020

4 HEALTH SCENE W ith the virus that causes COVID-19 still active, your children may be hearing a lot about the pandemic from TV, the internet or other kids. And some of what they hear may frighten them. That’s understandable. But you can help calm any concerns your children have by talking with them about COVID-19. TALKING POINTS Here are some tips, courtesy of the National Association of School Nurses and other medical experts, for chatting with children: Parents: Here’s how to calm coronavirus concerns Be honest, calm and reassuring. We’re all concerned about the potential risks of COVID-19, and it’s fine to acknowledge that. But if you panic, your kids will too. Reassure them that many adults are working hard to keep them safe. Younger kids, especially, may need to hear that from you. Fight fear with facts. For instance, you can share with your kids, in age-appropriate terms they can understand, that: ●  ● Not everyone will get sick, and some will only have a mild illness. ●  ● The virus seems to spread like cold and flu germs—through close contact with someone who has the infection, such as when that person coughs or sneezes. It also may spread when people touch surfaces contaminated with the virus. Tell them how to stay healthy. We don’t have a COVID-19 vaccine yet (scientists are working on that). In the meantime, knowing how they can help prevent COVID-19 may help your kids feel less anxious. Here are some of the best ways to do that: ●  ● Wash your hands often. Scrub with soap and water for 20 seconds. ●  ● Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. Use a tissue, throw it away and wash your hands. In a pinch, cough or sneeze into your elbow. ●  ● Don’t share food or drinks. ●  ● Try hard not to touch your eyes, nose or mouth. These are places where germs can enter the body. ●  ● Wear a cloth face mask in public (for kids 2 and older only). LET THEM KNOW THEY CAN ASK ABOUT COVID-19. BUT DON’T FORCE CONVERSATIONS. BE PREPARED TO RIGHT ANY RUMORS, XENOPHOBIA AND BLAME. As COVID-19 has spread around the globe, so have myths and misplaced blame. Listen to your child’s concerns about COVID-19 and correct any confusion. You can find accurate and current info at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s coronavirus disease website. Sadly, some people may say wrong and hurtful things, like blaming groups of people or their products for the virus. If other people say such things, talk to your children about why those things are wrong to say. Remind your kids not to spread rumors. BE THERE FOR YOUR KIDS. IT’S ALWAYS IMPORTANT TO GIVE THEM LOTS OF LOVE AND ATTENTION, BUT THEY MAY NEED A LITTLE MORE OF IT NOW. Meet our senior team members Shelly Russell, CEO Greg Burkel, CFO Judy Brown, CNO Vicki Brandau, Senior Director of PHO Clinics HEALTH SCENE SUMMER 2020 ® HEALTH SCENE is published as a community service for the friends and patrons of Mitchell County Regional Health Center, 616 N. Eighth St., Osage, IA 50461, telephone 641-732-6000. Samantha Taets, Senior Director of Process Excellence and Quality Assurance Angie Konig, Senior Director of Human Resources Elaine Barreca, Senior Director of Public Relations/Foundation Information in HEALTH SCENE comes from a wide range of medical experts. If you have any concerns or questions about specific content that may affect your health, please contact your health care provider. Models may be used in photos and illustrations. 2020 © Coffey Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.