Sisters and Brothers,

On behalf of the Executive Board, we pray that all our members and their families are safe and healthy during this unprecedented time.

Please let me reiterate what has been said over and over by our leaders and medical associations:

Stay inside as much as possible, wash your hands frequently, as the virus may remain on cardboard for up to 24 hours and plastic and stainless steel surfaces up to 2-3 days, cough into the crook of your arm, as droplets can linger in the air for 3 hours, take your temperature daily and pay special attention to symptoms in children, as they too can contract mild cases of the virus, but still pass it on to adults.

The World Health Organization (WHO) advises against using ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, many generic versions) for COVID-19 symptoms. While these are only observations and not based on scientific studies, it currently seems prudent to use acetaminophen to help reduce fever and ease aches and pains related to this coronavirus infection. No specific recommendation was made regarding naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn). Given naproxen and ibuprofen have similar actions, it’s best to avoid naproxen as well. For now, if you suspect or know you have COVID-19 and cannot take acetaminophen, or have taken the maximum dose and still need symptom relief, contact your doctor for advice.

We are all hoping for a speedy end to this pandemic and as always wish the best to our members and their families.

Fraternally,
NYS FOP LODGE 46
EXECUTIVE BOARD