SARS-CoV-2 creates a disease called COVID-19. This is a new flu this year. It is particularly harmful to seniors. From global reports it has been contained in China, and other places. Until we can identify (get more testing kits) and quarantine infected people this is going to spread. For younger healthy people this, generally, is a mild flu. Younger healthy people may be infected, not show any obvious symptoms AND be contagious for up to 14 days. Physical distancing is very important. Some people can’t physically distance, in particular, care providers that go from building to building caring for others. It is important, especially for care providers, to wear masks and gloves, because the care providers are the vectors of infection between seniors’ buildings.
From the BC Center of Disease Control:
Right now, Greater Victoria has a shortage of face masks. A mask will stop the spray from your nose or mouth if you cough or sneeze, and thereby greatly reduce the risk of contaminating others. Although not a surgical mask, they will also greatly reduce the risk of catching the virus. It is important, especially for care providers, to wear these. They need our help!
Step 1 – Sewing Masks
Do you have extra fabric at home? Are you able to sew these simple masks?
Cherish at Central Park is providing a drop off location in Langford at 917 Avrill Road (corner of Jacklin and Jenkins) open from 7:30 am to 7:30 pm 7 days per week. Please drop your masks into the “Donated Masks” box inside our front entrance. Sewing instructions are in the You Tube link below. The creator of the video is independent of Cherish, but saw the need in her community.
Step 2 – Washing and Packaging
Cherish will wash the face masks in our commercial laundry machines and package the sanitized face masks in packs of 2. We will provide them free of charge to people that need them.
Step 3 – Distribution of Donated Masks
Information to come, once we receive incoming masks.
