This is a scary and uncertain time for our world. We have received many questions regarding COVID-19 and how we are protecting our clients, their families and our staff. These are important questions, as we are an outpatient rehab in Agoura Hills, California with people coming and going. To reassure you of our efforts to keep everyone safe at Awakenings Treatment Center, here are the precautions we are taking as of March 16th, 2020.
We are Following All CDC Recommendations
The U.S. is currently working to minimize the spread of COVID-19, a highly contagious respiratory disease in the coronavirus family. There have been reported cases in many states, including California. Because COVID-19 is already in the U.S., the best approach is to reduce its reach. This requires a number of interventions for our treatment facility, including:
- Not allowing outside visitors
- Practicing screening protocols
- Educating staff on infection prevention and control training
- Disinfecting all meeting rooms, lobby areas, etc.
- Monitoring client care supplies like masks and hand sanitizer
- Reviewing cleaning contracts for additional support
- Communicating with our local health department and the CDC
Tips for Preventing the Spread of COVID-19
The CDC has also released guidelines on how to reduce the spread of the coronavirus. Again, because we are an outpatient drug rehab in Agoura Hills, California, our clients do return home in the evenings and have interactions with friends, family and their communities. We encourage all of our clients, their families and our staff to practice the following:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
- Don’t touch your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds
- If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer
- Keep a distance between you and others
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces
Should Coronavirus Stop You From Going to Rehab?
The most vulnerable individuals to coronavirus are the elderly and those with compromised immune systems. What some people don’t realize is that a drug-dependent body is immune-compromised. Additionally, people with nicotine addiction are at risk, as this virus affects the lungs. Because these populations are in our treatment center, we are taking the virus seriously.
That said, if you are considering entering outpatient drug rehab in Agoura, please do not let COVID-19 stop you. It may seem like postponing or canceling your plans is best, but not when it comes to addiction. In fact, the boredom that comes from staying indoors and limiting contact with others can worsen your addiction.
At this time, there is no evidence that rehab facilities are more likely to have coronavirus outbreaks. Consider that opioid addictions claim the lives of 130 Americans every day. If you are struggling with addiction, seeking treatment remains the best option, even right now.
If you have additional questions regarding the proactive steps we are taking to keep our clients, their families and our staff safe, please contact us today.
