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COVID-19 President Update March 9

Dear Cushing Community, 

We continue to closely monitor the spread of the respiratory disease, COVID-19.  Last week we participated in two conference calls with Public Health Commissioner Dr. Monica Bharel and we are closely monitoring information from both the CDC and Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Our planning and decision-making is guided by the information from these sources.  

While COVID-19 is dominating headlines, the flu remains a greater risk to our community at this time. We continue to perform regular cleaning/disinfecting of all surfaces to prevent the transmission of viruses.  We have also purchased the Clorox 360 sanitation system that will aid in keeping our programs healthier & sanitized. Unfortunately, due to high demand, this system will arrive in the next few weeks.

We are asking everyone to continue to take proactive precautions as recommended by public health authorities to prevent the spread of the virus. Because COVID-19, in addition to influenza, is thought to spread mainly person-to person through coughing or sneezing by infected people, it is important to take the following actions to stay healthy.

  • Practice good hand hygiene! Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds including under your fingernails. Singing the “ABC” song is helpful in estimating the timing. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol content) can be used when soap and water are not available.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, mouth and face
  • Do not share common used items such as cups and utensils
  • Keep personal spaces clean and disinfected
  • Cover your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing with a tissue and discard it immediately. Cough into the sleeve over your elbow instead of your hand. Wash your hands often when coughing and sneezing.
  • Stay away from people who are sick and stay home when you are sick

Cardinal Cushing Centers will continue to keep you informed of updates or changes as we are advised by our local and state departments of public health.

Thank you for your support and partnership as we strive to keep our community healthy.

Be Well,

Michelle Markowitz

Interim President & CEO