GENERAL COVID-19 QUESTIONS
What is COVID-19?
The 2019 Coronavirus, or COVID-19, is a new respiratory virus first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China in December 2019. It is part of a larger family of viruses called coronavirus, some of which are in circulation normally and can cause illnesses like the common cold.
This Coronavirus is not the same strain coronavirus as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) or Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS).
Where is COVID-19?
Cases of COVID-19 have spread throughout the World. This is an evolving situation.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms of the COVID-19 can include:
o Fever
o Cough
o Shortness of breath
How is COVID-19 spread?
According to the CDC, the virus is thought to have originated from an animal but is now spreading from person to person. Coronaviruses, including this new one, are thought to spread via exposure to an infected person’s respiratory droplets—such as those produced when a person coughs or sneezes.
How long after infection are symptoms apparent?
Public health officials say the symptoms may appear 2 to 14 days after exposure to the virus.
What is the screening process for patients?
Currently the screening includes looking at:
o Symptoms of COVID-19
o Travel to a highly infected area or close contact with a confirmed or suspected case of COVID-19
o Differential diagnosis testing to determine if the individual has another infection such as the flu
How can I help protect myself from getting COVID-19?
The CDC recommends some simple steps to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including: o Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcoholbased sanitizer
o Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
o Avoid close contact with people who are sick
o Stay home when you are sick
o Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue and then throw the tissue in the trash
o Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
What do I do if I am sick?
Stay home if you are sick.
If you feel you need to seek medical care, please call the ED in advance of arriving and keep wearing your mask.
PROTECT YOURSELF & OTHERS DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC
MORE INFORMATION
COVID-19 SUPPORT
In these unprecedented times when COVID-19 continues to spread and to impact almost every individual and organization across the world directly or indirectly, your support and contributions will enable us to meet our goals and improve conditions.
Your generous donation will fund our mission.