There’s no other way to put it: our entire community has been turned upside down by the COVID-19 outbreak. As Pittsburgh’s people and businesses adjust to a new reality of social distancing, our team is also taking precautions to protect the homes and businesses we do work for. In this article, we’ll review some of the specialized services we’re offering businesses at this time, as well as what you should know about COVID-19 and how you can help support local businesses more generally.
What you need to know about COVID-19
Perhaps more commonly known as “coronavirus,” COVID-19 is a novel virus that has spread around the world in just a matter of months. There are a few factors that make COVID-19 so virulent. First, because it just recently jumped from animals to infecting humans, we have no pre-existing immunity against it in the way we do against other diseases. There is not yet a vaccine to protect people against the virus. Second, accidental transmission is incredibly likely. An infected individual can be contagious and spread the virus to others for several days before they have symptoms. In fact, some people who catch COVID-19 never show symptoms at all.
In total, experts now believe that about 80% of people infected with COVID-19 have mild-to-moderate flu-like symptoms. However, some people—including the elderly, those with pre-existing conditions, and people with compromised immune systems—are more at risk of developing severe symptoms that require hospitalization. It should be noted that otherwise healthy, young people can also become seriously ill. Current social distancing and “stay at home” directives are currently aimed at slowing the spread of COVID-19 so that our local hospitals and medical professionals are not flooded with severe COVID-19 cases. This helps to save lives and, eventually, slow the spread of the disease to a crawl.
You can do your part to prevent and slow the spread of COVID-19. Here’s where to start:
— Avoid Public Places: Stay at home when possible, and only go out to go to work or to get essential supplies. When you do go out, keep six feet from the nearest person, do not touch your face, and wear a protective mask over your mouth and nose.
— Take Precautions: When you get back home, thoroughly wash your hands in warm, soapy water. Sanitize anything you might have touched—especially your phone. If you are feeling ill, stay home and do not go out.
— Stay Informed: Check the website for the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention for the latest up-to-date information and recommendations for how to respond to the COVID-19 outbreak. Local and state health officials may also have recommendations.
Here’s how you can support local businesses
The COVID-19 pandemic is a global problem with a pronounced local impact. Throughout the Pittsburgh area, small and local businesses are being negatively affected by the virus and its fallout. If you are able, we encourage everyone to support local businesses in any way that you can. Here are just a few ideas:
— Buy local, shop local: Many storefronts have seen a drastic drop in foot traffic and sales. Whether you’re shopping for essentials or looking to get someone a gift, please consider shopping local and supporting these businesses and their employees.
— Order out: While some restaurants have temporarily closed, many others still remain open and are preparing to-go and delivery orders. If you’re able, take a break from cooking and order out from a local restaurant. Not comfortable ordering food at this time? Call them and ask if you can purchase a gift certificate. This allows you to support them now and you can use the gift card once the outbreak is over.
— Be patient and kind: From restaurants and grocery stores to essential services, many businesses are feeling the stress of doing business a whole new way. Their employees are in the same position. A simple “thank you” can go a long way. Remember: we’re all in this together. Together, we’re #PittsburghStrong.
Our team wants to give special mention and thanks to our local first responders, medical professionals, and everyone else putting themselves in harm’s way to help our community through this outbreak. You’re amazing, and we greatly appreciate everything you’re doing.
Finally, a big thank you goes out to our customers. We appreciate your continued business and support. Our team will continue to meet your glass repair and replacement needs throughout this crisis and beyond. We’re here to help with everything from shower glass replacement to board up services and commercial projects.
