COVID-19 Information
Coronovirus/COVID-19 Information and Tips for renters: Prevention
The novel coronavirus is a new respiratory virus. Symptoms include fever, cough and shortness of breath and may appear in as few as two days or as long as 14 days after exposure. A vaccine is not available.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that there is likely to be widespread transmission of COVID-19 in the United States at some point, though there is currently not widespread circulation in most U.S. communities. The World Health Organization (WHO) is now characterizing COVID-19 as a pandemic. That term does not change the assessment of the severity of the disease, but rather its spread in significant levels in a significant number of countries.
We are not public health experts. We are providing these resources to give you access to trusted sources in one convenient location. We recommend that you look to the World Health Organization, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Texas Department of State Health Services and your local public health authorities for information and tips on minimizing your risk, recognizing symptoms and suggested treatments for COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by the novel coronavirus.
Prevention
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers these suggestions for basic protective measures:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
- If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
- Stay home when you are sick
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue away
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
Look to these public health organizations for the latest information on coronavirus, how to minimize risks, how to mitigate the spread of the virus, resources, FAQs and more to assist you.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
About Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) (CDC resource page)
Texas Department of State Health Services
Texas Local Public Health Organizations (local health departments, public health districts and local health units)
Coronavirus/COVID-19 Impacts: Unemployment benefits and job resources
Unemployment benefits: Register online for unemployment benefits at the Texas Workforce Commission or call 800/939-6631.
Due to the state of emergency declared by Gov. Greg Abbott, the state has suspended the requirement that unemployed individuals must register with the state jobs site and show they are actively applying for new jobs. The state also has waived the “waiting week” provision that previously held back one week of benefits until after job seekers found a new job or hit their benefits maximum.
Job resources: There are a number of online job search boards, and some industries need additional workers now to respond to increased demands for their services.
- Texas Workforce Commission job search for (employers & candidates) and Texas Workforce Commission jobs initiative
Small business loans:
- Texas business owners are expected to be eligible for disaster injury loans from the Small Business Administration as a result of the COVID-19/coronavirus declaration of a state emergency.
- Small business programs at the governor’s office may also offer assistance. This page also includes links to federal resources.
Rental/Mortgage Assistance – COVID-19 Waco Community Update
https://covidwaco.com/rental-mortgage-assistance.com