As the weather gets colder and we begin to spend more time indoors and enjoy the coming holiday season, we must remain vigilant in our efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19. Now is not the time to relax our guard. In fact, the experts at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continue to believe that people are more likely to become infected the longer and closer they are to a person with COVID-19. Earlier this month, they updated their guidance on how COVID-19 is spread, including revised information about the potential for airborne spread. Even with this new information, their recommendations for prevention remain the same, as does our DHS workplace guidance, because close contact is still the most common way to catch the virus.
As a reminder, the basic steps to protect yourself from catching COVID-19 are:
- stay at least 6 feet away from others
- wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth
- wash your hands frequently
- clean touched surfaces often
- stay home when sick
You have all performed tremendously during this unprecedented pandemic response, and it is important to take care of yourself as well as the mission. Flu season has arrived and your physical health is critical—please consider getting a flu shot. Your mental health is also very important. Be sure to maintain your social connections and be mindful of stressors and challenges to your wellbeing. If you do need help, reach out to family, friends, coworkers or others, or consult our EAP program for assistance.
To stay up to date on health issues, subscribe to our weekly digest of news, information, and resources from the Employee and Family Readiness Blog. Note: That is also where you will find my CHCO blog (replacing the weekly messages I was sending).
Thank you again for the dedication you display every day for DHS, your communities, and the Nation.
Angela Bailey
Chief Human Capital Officer
With honor and integrity, we will safeguard the American people, our homeland, and our values.