Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

We wrote in this space not long ago about taking sensible precautions to prepare for coronavirus, but things suddenly changed five days ago when Alabama confirmed its first positive case.

Social distancing has quickly become the most popular phrase in our society. As we all adjust to the new social realities of social distancing, increased cleanliness and no large gatherings, many of our local business owners deserve praise for taking initiative by putting alternate plans in place.

Although there are no confirmed cases in Chambers County, there are two cases in Troup County and three in Lee County.

We hope we’re wrong, but we assume there will be one in Chambers at some point.

That is why we should all adhere to the last recommendations related to gatherings of 10 or more people — just don’t do it.

As we turn away from public spaces, we encourage readers to find a safe way to support local businesses who will be put off by these precautionary measures.

Parents and caregivers will be scrambling for to care for their children staying home from school. College students will have to adjust to learning remotely instead of being able to collaborate in person.

Employees and employers will likely need to adjust to the possibility of working from home or staying away from the office if they’re showing symptoms.

Over the next few weeks, we will all be paying a high price in terms of inconvenience, but the alternative is far worse — increasing exposure to our elderly and more vulnerable residents and increasing the likelihood of overwhelming our health care system to care for the sick.

Be smart. 

Wash your hands and do not go to work, school or public areas if you are showing any signs of illness or are not feeling well.

Anyone exhibiting symptoms, including fever, cough, or shortness of breath should call 334-528-SICK(7425).