March 17, 2020
NYSARA Postpones Biennial Election Convention Until June 17, 20
New York’s Public Health Emergency around the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation suggests seniors especially follow the recommendations guard against infection outlined below.
On Sunday the CDC made a reccomendation that there should be no gatherings of more than fifty (50) people for the next eight (8) weeks. While currently only a recommendation NYSARA takes that recommendation extremely seriously as seniors are in the highest risk group for this virus. We are therefore postponing the biennial election convention until June 17, 2020. The convention will still be at NYSUT headquarters in Latham, NY from 10:30 am to 3:00 pm and will include lunch.
In the meantime, here is some information you should know to protect yourself:
COVID 19 presents symptoms much like the flu, but as a new virus, there is no vaccination yet available. Seniors are particularly susceptible and if you get sick, contact your doctor immediately. You should not go to work or volunteer if you are feeling ill.
- Wash hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand-sanitizer
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing, then throw it away. If a tissue isn’t available, cough or sneeze into your elbow, not your hands.
- Learn about your community’s plans. For example, how will your local public health department, place of work and grandchildren’s schools share important information.
- Have a two-week supply of food, water and medications on hand in case you have to stay in your home.