Like the rest of the world, we are diligently staying up to speed on the current situation and we are doing what we can to ensure that our customers and our staff and community are as healthy and safe as possible. We will be following the advice of the Chicago Department of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control.
Out of an abundance of caution, here are the steps we are taking and advice we are giving our employees and customers...
- If you are sick, stay home and seek advice from your doctor. We are asking employees and customers who are exhibiting cold or flu-like symptoms, or who have recently visited a COVID-19 hot spot, to play it safe and stay home for their personal health and the health of the community.
- Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently. Here's some handy instructions on effective hand washing from the CDC! Yes, the 20 seconds rule matters! Hand sanitizers are a backup method of sanitizing your hands but still not as effective as a thorough hand wash.
- Keep your world clean. We're taking extra steps throughout the shop to keep the store clean and as germ-free as possible.
- Don't share. While the virus is spreading, it's a good idea to minimize sharing products (and food and beverages) with others.
- Elbow bump or foot bump instead of hand shake. All the cool kids are doing it and it's kind of fun!
- Sneeze into your elbow. When you do need to sneeze even if just because of dust or allergies, practice sneezing into your elbow and away from the people around you.
- Avoid touching your face. Tissues come in handy to help you avoid touching your face and your eyes with your bare hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick. As much as is possible, try to avoid direct contact with people who are noticeably sick, feverish, sneezing, or coughing.
- Avoid traveling to COVID-19 hotspots. The CDC provides a page of advice for travelers with a geographic risk assessment page that is updated frequently.
- Seek prompt remote medical advice if needed. If you are having flu-like or identified COVID-19 symptoms, call your medical care provider right away and seek their advice on next steps. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, dial 911!
These are the times where communities, families, and friends are more important than ever. We wish everyone health and peace as we navigate the coming months together!