Letters: KC readers discuss the simplest step against COVID-19 and cable bill shock

Simple steps

What is the most important piece of advice you’ve heard to stay safe from the coronavirus pandemic? If you answered, “Properly wash my hands,” then you are correct.

It sounds simple, yet, at Children International, a Kansas City-based global humanitarian organization, we have seen proof of the correlation among proper handwashing, good health and lives saved. It’s part of the preventative health curriculum we have taught to more than 71,500 children and parents around the world.

We know our education model works. Last year in Zambia, Children International families remained healthy during a cholera outbreak. Through a scary and uncertain time, it was remarkable to see healthy habits making a difference for our families.

Proper handwashing is the single most effective action to help slow the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. Of course, not touching our faces and social distancing are also key. My hope is that a little education can make a big difference. May we all commit to doing our part.

- Shweta Verma, global lead for preventative health programs, Children International, New Delhi, India

Not the time

My wife and I were surprised when our cable bill came with a $10 increase. That’s not a lot of money, but the timing is horrible.

It is shameful to gouge your customers when millions of people have just lost their jobs. And with COVID-19 relief checks coming, the company looks suspect.

- Dick Horn, Overland Park

This story was originally published April 11, 2020 at 5:00 AM.