small city near Buffalo. Had a long, rough day today.
Buffalo is a blue city, but some towns near it, like mine, are red. Professionals here are taking it seriously. 36 confirmed cases in Buffalo and a couple suburbs, with 3 times that number suspected, but not tested. Some proven community spread. Several in my immediate area in quarantine due to travel history, but not tested or confirmed.
Made my last trip out in the town today after stocking up. Needed to go to my pharmacy and to doc's office. Saw many people proudly, openly defiant of Cuomo's advice to avoid groups and going out unless necessary. Walked past a young mother in her 20s with a 5 year old son racing on a big plastic trike/car in circles just outside a store entrance. I asked the mom if it was a good idea to be there like that. She had heavy black liner circling her eyes and bright purple lipstick. Sneered at me and said,"I won't even discuss it with the likes of you." I have gray and white hair, was wearing vinyl gloves, and no makeup. Before I even knew I was thinking it, I blurted out, "You ignorant bitch. Who will watch your kid when you get sick?"
I was at the doc's to pick up sample asthma inhalers bc the copay is so high. Had messaged my PA so they had them ready at the reception desk but did not have an appt. Receptionist was alarmed that someone had entered and called for a nurse who ordered me to stop just inside the door, where she took my temp and ordered me to leave. Told me it was 100.5. I demanded my inhaler and she tossed it to me.
I felt fine. No chills, forehead and face cool, no achy eyes like I get with a fever. Took my temp at home. It was 98.7. 5 hours later (evening) it was 97.5. Nurse had overreacted and was sloppy (or lied) about temp because I had no appt.
At CVS I arranged to have next med refill mailed, no charge. Bought some water. They had put their credit card machine on a small cart a couple feet away from the counter (plus width of counter = 6 feet). There were wide red tape strips on the carpet, 6 feet apart, for customers to stand at while in line.
A CVS customer complained about "stupid Cuomo" closing businesses across the whole state as if we were NYC. I told him it would be stupid not to, since the goal is to avoid becoming like NYC and not wait until it happened, which would be too late.
At home in my apt building, I wear gloves ir use tissue/paper towel to touch elevator buttons. Each floor has a coin-operated laundry room. I bought quarters and sprayed them with Lysol. I use Lysol spray and sanitary wipes on machines before I use them. Take off shoes inside the door and spray the soles and floor where they sit by the door.
Other residents are all aware and cautious, too. It is a senior complex. No more grandkids or kids visiting. First floor lobby businesses are closed (hairdresser, jeweler).
I am keeping a daily journal to record news and my feelings as things develop.
Wish you well in NYC.
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