Liu Lab Guidelines on COVID-19
(March 2020)
Taking precautions to prevent COVID-19 will save the life of one or more people you know.
https://www.northwestern.edu/coronavirus-covid-19-updates/index.html
From the Center for Disease Control (CDC):
“The coronavirus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.
- Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet or 1-2 meters).
- Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.”
Precautions Liu Cluster members must take (PPSS):
- Physical Protection:
WEAR a facial mask (reusable), glasses, gloves (reusable) whenever in close contact (<6 feet) with others, during public transportation or within the lab (or avoid crowds if you can). Any mask can reduce 80% chances of virus spread. REUSE masks/gloves after UV/70% ethanol sterilizing or wash masks if washable (60°C water 10 mins).
WEAR lab coats and wash it every week or more frequently if you can.
DISINFECT any surfaces/buttons/switches with 70% ethanol/disinfectant you may touch, both at home and in the lab, including benches, chairs, door handles, computer keyboard, mouse, conference room table, kitchen (microwave), food fridge, and eating areas.
DISINFECT lab equipment: Microscope oculars. Wipe off microscope nobs and eye pieces with 70% ethanol or disinfectant. Disinfect your gloves with 70% ethanol when using. Same with PCR machines and other lab common items. Wipe down doors of refrigerators etc.
Stay in clean, open, and well-ventilated environments. Keep your room ventilated with lab doors open.
- Personal Hygiene:
Wash your hands with soap for 20 seconds before you eat and as frequently as you can.
Sanitize your hands with 70% alcohol sanitizers, whenever (prior to) you arrive to lab/home, before you eat, before you touch your face, after you touch any public surfaces, and as frequently as possible.
Prepare food with gloves and disinfect your dishes with detergent/hot water. Have hot meals. No hand-food.
NEVER share open food/meals or drinks with others including your family members. Eat separately in distance.
- Social distance:
Keep distance (1-2 meters apart) to anybody you may encounter in the public or in the lab. No hand shaking.
Avoid public transit if you can. Drive, walk, or cycle to work. Avoid attending big gatherings. Avoid restaurants.
We provide options of online lab meetings and journal club.
Coordinate with lab members if you prefer afternoon/evening hours or weekend shifts (do not work alone).
Avoid travels or airports. If you return from any airports, we suggest a 2-week “self-quarantine”.
Stay home and seek medical care if you are sick.
- Strengthen your immune system:
Eat healthy food, vegetables and fresh fruits (high Vit C).
Have good quality sleep.
Exercise if you can. Walk or cycle …J
NO Alcohol, no smoking. Both impair your immune system.
