Nextdoor Blog Update on the Coronavirus

Given the increasing risk to the general public for contracting the coronavirus (COVID-19), the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that now is the time for communities to prepare.

We continue to see in times like this that having a neighborhood to rely on is often key. Neighbors turn to Nextdoor to lend a hand, lean on others when they need help the most and connect with local authorities, who can provide relevant, real-time information. 

We are constantly monitoring how the coronavirus is impacting communities around the world, and are working closely with government partners to share important and timely information. It is with this in mind that we have gathered the following tips to help you, your family, and your neighbors to get prepared. 

1. STAY INFORMED: To make sure you have the most up-to-date information, check the CDC site regularly or sign up for the CDC newsletter here, and share the information with your neighbors. 
2. BE PREPARED: Make sure to have enough food, household supplies, water, vitamins and medications for each person (and pet) in your home. If you run out of supplies, let neighbors know so they can share or direct you to available supplies at businesses in your local area. Should you become ill, it is important to have health supplies on hand including pain relievers, cough and cold medicines, and fluids with electrolytes.
3. GET TO KNOW YOUR NEIGHBORS: Talk with your neighbors (particularly the elderly and those with underlying medical conditions) about emergency planning and let them know you’re there to help. According to the CDC, older adults and people who have severe chronic medical conditions like heart, lung or kidney disease seem to be at higher risk for more serious COVID-19 illness. Localized community response can be critical during times when federal, state and local authorities are overwhelmed. 
4. IDENTIFY AID ORGANIZATIONS IN YOUR COMMUNITY: Create a list of local organizations that you can contact for information, health care services, support, resources, and mental health or counseling services. Local government partners on Nextdoor are an important resource for hyper-local information about developments in your city. You may also consider enabling push notifications to receive real-time, critical information in the form of Emergency Alerts from your local first responding departments. 
5. CREATE AN EMERGENCY CONTACT LIST: Ensure your household has a current list of emergency contacts for family, friends, neighbors, carpool drivers, health care providers, teachers, employers, the local public health department, and other community resources.

We are here to help. Leverage our platform so you can stay connected to your neighbors – click here to invite your neighbors. And, for real-time updates, we encourage you to also visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

If you believe you are seeing false information related to Coronavirus, please report it to Nextdoor. To learn more visit here.