Facts and information about the coronavirus pandemic are constantly changing. Visit the CDC site for the most up-to-date information during the COVID-19 outbreak.
The first COVID-19 case in Arkansas was announced on March 11th, 2020, and daily life has changed in the months following the first case of coronavirus disease. Schools have switched to alternative methods of instruction and many are working remotely from home. You may have had your first TeleVisit. Limiting close contact and practicing social distancing — which includes keeping six feet away from others and staying home as much as you can — helps flatten the curve and mitigate the spread of the virus.
However, extended periods of social isolation combined with the disruption and uncertainty of a pandemic can cause anxiety and restlessness. People want to know when the COVID-19 pandemic will end, when businesses will reopen, and when life will get back to normal.
When will the COVID-19 pandemic end?
We don’t know exactly when the coronavirus pandemic will end, but we do know the virus won’t disappear overnight. Like the flu, coronavirus will require treatments and vaccines to control its spread.
There will be a transition period as restrictions are lifted and businesses reopen their doors. Everyone must continue taking actions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 as we gradually return to a normal way of life.
Preventive actions are even more important as we find ourselves spending less time at home and more time around others. If we don’t make efforts to prevent spreading coronavirus once restrictions are loosened, we risk a second round of infections and closures.
Doing your part helps life return to normal faster.
Continue following CDC and Arkansas Department of Health recommendations
Wear a reusable cloth face covering while in public.
Wearing a reusable cloth face mask is an easy way to keep your community healthy. It’s possible to have COVID-19 without knowing that you have it, and you can still spread the virus even if you have no symptoms. A face mask protects those around you and the masks that others wear protect you.
Stay six feet away from others outside of your home.
Coronavirus spreads primarily through close contact with others. Maintaining six feet of physical distance helps reduce your exposure to the virus.
Wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds.
Stay in the habit of washing your hands frequently, especially after going out in public or touching surfaces others may have touched. Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
Do not touch your face.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth — especially with unwashed hands.
Clean and disinfect surfaces.
Disinfect frequently touched surfaces in your home, workspace, and vehicle.
Stay home if you are sick.
Do not go out in public if you develop COVID-19 symptoms; cough, fever, shortness of breath. Stay home and contact your doctor immediately.