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Dr. Christiadi, a research associate with the West Virginia University Bureau of Business and Economic Research, explains how the timing of the COVID-19 outbreak and the U.S. Census threatens accurate data collection and is particularly confusing now for college students, who should be counted at their schools, even if they have been sent home to learn remotely because of the virus. The form may be completed online at 2020census.gov.

As many Americans take steps to reduce the spread of the coronavirus and keep their families safe, many will be using household cleaning products to clean and disinfect their homes, offices and other spaces. What many don’t know is that if these products aren’t used properly, they can be harmful to your health. Ami Cook, West Virginia University Extension Service Families and Health Agent in Clay and Braxton counties, offers information, tips and advice for properly cleaning and disinfecting your home to keep your family (and pets) safe.

Amy Root, a West Virginia University parenting scholar and associate professor in the College of Education and Human Services Child Development and Family Studies Program, offers the following tips for parents and families who want to maintain consistency and normalcy in this rapidly changing environment.

Christine Schimmel, associate professor and program coordinator of the School Counseling Program at the WVU College of Education and Human Services, recommends that parents be open with their children about current events.

Working from home is one way to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus, but not every profession makes it possible. One example? Dentistry. Dentists, dental hygienists and other dental professionals face an especially high risk of occupational exposure to the virus.

After observing the lack of coordination and communication - which put vulnerable populations at higher risk - before, during and after Hurricane Katrina, Michael Zakour, professor of social work at West Virginia University, is concerned the same may be happening now in the U.S. response to the novel coronavirus pandemic.

In times of uncertainty, one of our first concerns is keeping our families healthy and fed. Gina Wood, specialist with West Virginia University Extension Service’s Family Nutrition Program, says it’s easy to fill your shelves with food that’s both healthy and shelf-stable.

As people across the nation prepare for social distancing to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus, they may stock up on groceries, fill all of their prescriptions and reschedule doctor’s appointments. What they may not think to do is plan ways to keep from feeling lonely. WVU'S Laurie Theeke offers tips on how to avoid loneliness while practicing social distancing.

As West Virginians rush to stock their pantries in response to the ongoing public health crisis, it’s more important than ever to keep our food budgets in mind. Gina Wood, specialist with West Virginia University Extension Service’s Family Nutrition Program, offers several strategies to fill your shelves while staying within your budget.

As families begin educating their children at home, West Virginia University Extension Service experts Kerri Carte and Sarah Owen have provided a few tips to help make this experience a little easier on the whole family.