Tracking COvid-19

COVID-19 was first reported in China in December 2019. Globally, there are now approximately 12842,507080 cases of COVID-19 and artoleuansdt 74,050804 reported deaths. Approximately 15150 countries have reported laboratory-confirmed cases.

THE OUTBREAK of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) may be stressful for people. Fear and anxiety about a disease can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Coping with stress will make you, the people you care about, and your community stronger.

Everyone reacts differently to stressful situations. How you respond to the outbreak can depend on your background, the things that make you different from other people, and the community you live in.

People who may respond more strongly to the stress of a crisis include:

■ Older people and people with chronic diseases who are at higher risk for COVID-19

■ Children and teens

■ People who are helping with the response to COVID-19, like doctors and other healthcare providers, or first responders.

■ People who have mental-health conditions, including problems with substance use.

■ If you, or someone you care about, are feeling overwhelmed with emotions like sadness, depression, or anxiety, or feel like you want to harm yourself or others, call the emergency hotline.

Stress during an infectious disease outbreak can include: ■ Fear and worry about your own health and the health of your loved ones

■ Changes in sleep or eating patterns

■ Difficulty sleeping or concentrating ■ Worsening of chronic health problems ■ Increased use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs ■ People with pre-existing mental-health conditions should continue with their treatment and be aware of new or worsening symptoms.

Taking care of yourself, your friends, and your family can help you cope with stress. Helping others cope with their stress can also make your community stronger.

Things you can do to support yourself: ■ Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including social media. Hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting.

■ Take care of your body. Take deep breaths, stretch, or meditate. Try to eat healthy, wellbalanced meals, exercise regularly, get plenty of sleep, and avoid alcohol and drugs. ■ Make time to unwind. Try to do some other activities you enjoy.

■ Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.