Even though we are not completely through with the first wave of the COVID-19, that does not mean we should not be preparing for the second wave.  It is important to be cautious and prepared so we are not as shocked and scrambling at the stores when the virus reappears. 

When thinking of what was in highest demand at the beginning and height of the pandemic, the everyday basics, such as toilet paper and disinfectant. There are some well-known ways to prepare for the second wave of the virus, such as;

• Stocking up on food
• Stocking up on supplies
• Build a comprehensive first aid kit
• Learn to be more self sufficient
• Buy extra face masks

However, there are several other things that you should be doing to help prepare yourself and your loved ones for the continuance and possible rise of the coronavirus. 

Prepare for Distance Learning or Home Schooling

Many schools across the country closed unexpectedly during the first wave of the pandemic. This left many parents scrambling to handle child-care and distance learning needs at the same time.  

If a second wave of the coronavirus occurs, the schools will most likely be closing again. So you should have a plan in place for the possibility of an extended school closure. You should think of what worked for you and your child and what did not. Which books, tools, or supplies made the process the most manageable? Be sure to stock up on those supplies now. 

Prepare to Work From Home

Nearly half of people that were employed before the pandemic are now working from home. Many employers are considering making the transition permanent to save money and help keep their employees healthy. 

If you have the tools and space to work efficiently, you could be more productive working from home. To help prepare to work from home long term or permanently, invest in furniture and tools you will be needing to make a comfortable home office.  

Build Your Emergency Fund

It is a general rule that you should have three to six months of living expenses saved in your emergency fund.  However, the COVID-19   pandemic is far from normal, that means you will need to have even more money in savings. These are uncertain times and you could lose your job or experience a medical emergency. 

It may seem impossible to have that much money put away if you work in freelance or have seasonal work. Nonetheless, there are many strategies you could use. Simply putting fifty dollars aside each month can help build up your savings. 

Secure a HELOC

If you own your home and worry that your job may not survive a second wave of the pandemic, you consider applying for a home equity line of credit (HELOC). 

With a HELOC, you do not have to use the money right away, but it is there to be available if you lose your job and need the money. This should help you pay bills and put food on the table if your finances are getting scarce. 

Be sure to weigh the pros and cons of using a HELOC before you sign up. The money must be repaid, and if it is not repaid you could end up losing your home.  

Get a Flu Shot

Many experts in the medical field are fearful that resurgence of COVID-19 in the fall would coincide with flu season. If the two viruses are circulating at the same time, the hospitals would quickly be overflowing with patients. 

You increase your chance of protecting yourself from getting the influenza virus by getting a flu shot. It is in the best interest of everyone to try to avoid going to the hospital, because there is risk of exposure to secondary infections or even the COVID-19 virus is a serious risk. 

COVID-19 Testing in Lyndhurst, NJ

To avoid the spread of the virus when you are unaware if you have it, you should visit AFC Urgent Care Lyndhurst for COVID-19 antibody testing and COVID-19 diagnostic testing. For more information about testing, please call 201-345-3839.