I live in a small, mostly Winter Texan community. Many of us have health issues, in addition to age, which make us art of the extreme risk community. We have always promoted self-quarantine when feeling ill and almost everyone here respects it.
Now, under threat of COVID-19 (although there is none confirmed yet within 250 miles of us) as well as seasonal flu and illness, we have limited our gatherings to our own community (we usually welcome all visitors) and have increased our emphasis on self-quarantine, thorough surface cleaning and handwashing. My husband and I also choose to avoid "potluck" eating events except where we know all the cooks. Our park has switched to food prep by health-precaution compliant staff and volunteers for small gatherings, and all tableware is either disposable or "bring your own." Gathering places that bring a lot of people together are largely closed, and events that would seat folks close together are cancelled.
Many of our residents have chosen to extend their stay here, with the ability to be outdoors and still socialize safely, instead of returning to northern homes to be isolated with all activities cancelled. The hardest thing so far, with those who are leaving, is to wave instead of sharing our usual hugs - especially since we have no idea what the future holds for all of us.
Above all, we need to be prudent in protecting ourselves and those around us without panic. I have challenged all of my friends and family to think twice before pushing the button to share or repost COVID-19 stories, especially those that point fingers, assess blame, or share unproven information.
Sue

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