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March 24, 2020

    Updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) and the Military Community

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    U.S. and South Korean soldiers spray a COVID-19 infected area with a solution of disinfectant in Daegu, South Korea, March 13, 2020. Photo by Army Spc. Hayden Hallman via Defense.gov.

    With the constantly evolving news on the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, it can be difficult to keep up with what’s real and what’s hearsay. 

    For military families living overseas, in the middle of a PCS move, or with a family member deployed or in training, staying updated with accurate information is especially important. While experienced military members and spouses know that nothing is certain in military life, it’s easy for even the most seasoned among us to feel anxious as news spreads like wildfire across social media. It’s crucial to vet any information through official sources. 

    As mentioned in our post last week, The Impact of COVID-19 on Military PCS Moves and Travel, the Department of Defense is sharing regular updates as events and guidance unfold. As of now, travel restrictions are in place until at least May 11.

    As always, look to your local command for information and area closures and cancellations. We've also put together a list of resources to help your military family during this time. All links are to official military or government organizations. 

    10 Trusted Sources About Coronavirus and the Military Community

    Secretary of the Army Ryan McCarthy and Chief of Staff of the Army Gen. James McConville hold a news conference at the Pentagon, March 20, 2020, to discuss the Army's efforts during the COVID-19, coronavirus pandemic.

    Secretary of the Army Ryan McCarthy and Chief of Staff of the Army Gen. James McConville hold a news conference at the Pentagon, March 20, 2020, to discuss the Army's efforts during the COVID-19, coronavirus pandemic. Photo by Army Staff Sgt. Brandy Nicole Mejia via Defense.gov.

    1) Coronavirus: DOD Response

    Daily updates from the Department of Defense in conjunction with the State Department and Department of Health and Human Services. 

    2) Washington Headquarters Services

    Specific guidance for those in the National Capital Region and Pentagon. 

    3) DODEA COVID-19 Page

    Information for families in the DODEA school system. 

    4) U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Coronavirus Updates

    Advice for veterans and contact info for facilities if you think you need to be tested. 

    5) Tricare’s Coronavirus Guidance and FAQs

    Updated as the situation changes, find out where to be tested as a Tricare beneficiary, information about quarantines, and more. 

    6) Centers for Disease Control (CDC)

    Prevention, symptoms, and resources for families, schools, businesses, and communities. 

    7) Impacts on Transition Assistance Programs and Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Programs

    News from the Military-Civilian Transition Office regarding the effects of Coronavirus on programs for transitioning and reintegrating military members. 

    8) Guidance from the Defense Health Agency

    Advice includes calling providers before visiting clinics if you think you have Coronavirus symptoms. 

    9) Guidance for DOD Civilians

    The latest updates for civilian workers. 

    10) Military OneSource Coronavirus Information for the Military Community

    Military OneSource now has a section dedicated to Coronavirus updates and resources. Find help for families in crisis, online learning resources for military kids, service updates and changes, and the latest video non-medical counseling for military youth (so helpful during this time of school closures and uncertainty). 

    Remember, non-medical counseling is available 24/7 toll-free at 1-800-342-9647 or through live chat. 

    MilitaryByOwner will continue to provide updated information and resources for your military family, along with flexibility for home and business advertisers. Current advertisers whose home or business ads expire before April 30th will be extended an additional 30 days if needed. Contact MilitaryByOwner with any questions you may have or through the live chat feature on our site. 

    By Jen McDonald

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    Jen McDonald

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    Jen McDonald

    Jen McDonald is the Content Editor for MilitaryByOwner Advertising, an award-winning author, speaker, and longtime advocate for military spouses. With over 30 years as a military spouse, Jen created her own path, raised four kids, supported her husband's Air Force career, and navigated the challenges of military life. Now, she shares her insights and encouragement with fellow military families through writing, podcasting, and public speaking. Jen is the author of You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse, and Milspouse Matters: Sharing Strength Through Our Stories, books offering support to military families. Her nonfiction writing has earned multiple awards, including a Gold Medal from the Military Writers Society of America and a Silver Award from Foreword INDIES. Now settled in Texas, Jen is working on her debut cozy mystery novel and reveling in the joys of grandparenting. She’s learned to write in the margins of life, tapping away at her laptop during early mornings or kids' sports practices. Connect with Jen at her site, Jen McDonald and Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.