Customers step into the Little Italy Restaurant in Saranac Lake for a take-out early Friday evening.(Enterprise photo Lou Reuter)

Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced on Friday that effective Sunday, all non-essential businesses are mandated to close and people are being asked to remain inside their homes to slow the spread of the coronavirus. Non-essential can sound vague, so heres a look at what you can and cant do:

Can I still order takeout?

Yes. Cuomos decision last week to transition all bars and restaurants to only takeout and delivery remains in effect. You can still support your favorite eateries in this hectic time.

Can I go to the bank?

Most area banks have switched to just drive-thru, ATM and online services. Lobby services are now only available by appointment with a lot of banks, so call ahead.

Can I go to the grocery store?

Yes. Before this virus broke out, the state initiated a plastic bag ban and many people switched to reusable bags. However, coronavirus can live on those reusable bags. Make sure you clean them with a disinfecting spray or wipe before going to the supermarket.

Should I buy latex gloves and face masks?

You probably shouldnt. There are shortages across the world for these medical supplies. Save them for the doctors, nurses and patients who need them.

Can I use public transportation?

No. Both Essex and Franklin County canceled their bus services.

Can I go outside?

Yes, but social distancing needs to be respected, and Cuomo recommends going out alone. Isolation can cause depression, anxiety and mental fatigue. Go out for a walk, a run, a hike or a bike. Be careful with hiking, though. Going up Mount Baker alone and with a cellphone isnt the worst idea, but hiking the High Peaks during mud season can be dangerous.

Can I go to the gym?

Nope. Youve got to work out at home or outside by yourself.

Can I go to the movie theater?

Nope. Nows the time to invest in a streaming service.

Can I go to the library?

Nope. But the New York Public Library has free e-books available on its website.

Can I get my hair or nails done?

Nope. Too much touching going on at the salon. Let the hair grow, and clip your nails at home. Cuomo ordered closing salons and barber shops.

Can I get a tattoo?

Nope. Again, too much touching and Cuomo ordered those closed, too.

What is the coronavirus?

The novel coronavirus is in the same family of viruses as the SARS, MERS and the common cold. The symptoms of the coronavirus are fever, shortness of breath, a sore throat and a dry cough. If the infection worsens, you can go into respiratory failure and require a breathing ventilator.

Who can get it?

Anybody. Dont think just because youre a spry 20-something you cant get infected. Yes, seniors and those with compromised immune systems will likely feel worse effects, younger generations can get it and spread it.

What if I think I have it?

Dont leave your home and dont rush over to Adirondack Medical Center without warning. You can infect more people that way. Stay calm and call the hospital at 518-897-2462 to see if you qualify to be tested.

Is there a cure?

No, not currently. Treating the coronavirus is like treating the flu or a cold. The best way to handle it at home is with rest, hydration and isolation. If the symptoms are severe, then call the hospital.

How can I stop the spread?

This is important. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has a list of guidelines, but people should go above and beyond that.

Because there is no cure in the form of a vaccine or medication, human behavior can slow the spread. Wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds at time. Thats roughly one round of the ABC song or two rounds of Happy Birthday. Or have fun with it. Sing the chorus to the Killers Mr. Brightside.

The virus is encased in a layer of fatty lipids. Soap destroys those lipids, and water washes the virus away.

Add some hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol to the mix.

Dont touch your face. Viruses get into our bodies through our eyes, noses, ears and mouths. They cant diffuse through our hands.

Cough and sneeze into elbow, not your hands.

Social distance from other people.

If youre sick, self-quarantine. The world will forgive you for missing work.

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