March 4, 2020
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Lenten greetings!
By now, we are all aware of the growing worldwide concern about the spread of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). The Jamaica Baptist Union (JBU) has been monitoring the situation and has taken note of some of the recommendations from various respected bodies such as, our Ministry of Health (MoH), Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
It seems almost inevitable that the virus will find its way to our shores. We need therefore, as responsible citizens and Christians to embrace measures that can minimize its potential impact on each of us. We urge you to adopt the following precautionary measures for the Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) adapted from the World Health Organisation in light of the outbreak of the virus:
- Wash hands regularly and thoroughly with soap and water or by using an alcohol based (60-96%) hand rub, especially but not limited to:
-after coughing or sneezing
-before, during and after preparation of food
-before eating
-after using the restroom
-touching animals
- Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing with flexed elbow or with tissue, which should be disposed of properly immediately.
- Maintain social distancing; at least 3 feet distance between yourself and anyone who has a fever, cough or sneezing.
- Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.
- Ensure that animal products are thoroughly cooked and handled properly during food preparation.
- If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention.
- Stay home if you are feeling sick.
While not wanting to stoke fear, I suggest that you may want to reconsider certain elements in our worship and fellowship which call for contact by way of touching and hugging. Those who are able could also think of mounting disinfectant stations, in order to assist in sensitizing our members to commit to ‘healthy hands’.
Let us pray for those countries, persons and families that have already been impacted by the virus, especially those who have lost citizens/loved ones and have had their movements severely curtailed. Let us pray also for our citizens who are quarantined in other countries and offer as much support to them as possible.
Friends, we know that ‘this too shall pass’ and so we pray God’s wisdom and enabling grace as we face the future.
Regards
Karl B. Johnson (Rev.)
General Secretary