What is COVID-19?
- COVID-19 is the name of the disease caused by the novel coronavirus. A novel coronavirus is a new coronavirus that has not been previously identified. ‘CO’ stands for corona, ‘VI’ for virus, and ‘D’ for disease.
Where do I go if I have fever, cough, and recently traveled to an area with many cases of COVID-19?
- Stay home except to get medical care. Call our office or other medical facility before going in for instructions. You will be scheduled as a virtual visit to be evaluated and advised on next steps. You should wear a face mask if you are around other people.
I just got back from an area with many cases of COVID-19. I don’t have any symptoms. Do I need to be seen?
- The CDC recommends monitoring for symptoms (mainly fever, cough, shortness of breath) and practicing social distancing for 14 days. Social distancing means remaining out of public places where close contact may occur (malls, theaters, stadiums), workplaces (unless able to distance from others), schools, and public transportation.
I have a fever and a cough. I don’t know if I was exposed to someone with coronavirus. Do I need to be seen?
- Recommend calling our office to schedule a virtual visit. We can review your risk factors and make further recommendations. Please do not come into the office. You should wear a face mask if you are around other people.
When can I fly or go on a cruise?
- CDC is currently recommending ALL travelers avoid cruises at this time. CDC also recommends older adults and travelers with underlying health issues avoid all nonessential travel. Nonessential travel should be avoided for ALL travelers to many countries with increasing cases of COVID 19. Check the CDC website for the most up to date recommendations. The US government has recommended avoiding all nonessential travel until further notice.
What is the definition of an older adult?
- CDC is defining an older adult as 60 and over.
If I am told to quarantine myself at home since I was exposed and may have the virus, how do I prevent my family members from getting the virus?
- As much as possible, stay in a specific room and away from others in your home. Use a separate bathroom if available. Wear a face mask when you are around other people. If you are unable to wear a face mask, have others in your home wear a face mask if they are around you. Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue and throw away after use. Wash hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or with a 60% or greater alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Avoid sharing dishes, glasses/cups, eating utensils, towels, or bedding with others. Clean all high touch surfaces daily (counters, tabletops, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and bedside tables).
What is the source of this virus?
- It is suspected to have originated from animals and then spread to people. That being said, it is now spreading from person to person and there is no reason to think contact with animals puts you at higher risk.
How is this virus spread?
- It is thought to spread mainly between people in close contact with one another (within 6 feet) through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It also may be possible to get the virus by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching your own mouth, nose, or eyes.
How long does this virus last?
- Recovery time is around 2 weeks for mild infections and 3 to 6 weeks for severe disease.
