Reputable COVID-19 Information Resources and Services

As information professionals, we all know that authoritative information is critical at times like this. With that in mind, the Library suggests these trusted sources for factual information on the virus and steps to protect yourself and to share information with others. We are also compiling a list of new non-healthcare services at the town, county and state level such as loans for small businesses impacted by the virus. This is an emerging, rapidly evolving situation and these resources will provide updated information as it becomes available.

Information Sources

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC] is the best resource for information on symptoms and the spread of the novel coronovirus.
• The World Health Organization has continuous updates with helpful information for individuals and the workplace.
• The National Institutes of Health has aggregated information from other medical organizations.
• MedLinePlus is a health encyclopedia and information portal produced by the U.S. National Library of Medicine and provides background on coronaviruses. Users can also search MedlinePlus for links to high-quality health and medical information from other government agencies and trusted third-party organizations.
• nCov2019 is a compilation of all statistics at a glance.
• Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center
• The New York State Department of Health has an information page with updates on executive orders. New York State Senator Alessandra Biaggi is also keeping an updated news page.
• New York State Department of Health COVID-19 Tracker
• NY Forward New York Governor Andrew Cuomo’s Reopening Plan
• Senior Benefits Counseling wiki page from the Westchester Library System.
• Free daily briefing from the New York Times.
• Free local news and coverage on school closings in the area from LoHud.com.
• Local information from the Westchester County Department of Health, updated daily.
• Other county updates from the Office of the County Executive, George Latimer
• Town of Pelham’s website, Village of Pelham Manor, Village of Pelham.
• Pelham Union Free School District
• Cleaning recommendations for businesses, schools and organizations from the CDC.

Services and Support

• Childcare Services of Westchester. Temporary or backup childcare. Call 914-761-3456 x140 and leave a message and your call will be returned.
• Childcare for Health and Hospital Workers. Latest update from the Office of the County Executive.
• Small Business Administration loans to businesses impacted.
• New York State’s Emergency Paid Sick Leave legislation.

Please practice these steps of prevention from the New York State Department of Health:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick
• Stay home when you are sick
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces