What You Need To Know About the Coronavirus Disease.
March 23, 2020
Amid the recent coronavirus outbreak, you probably have many questions. Our team gathered recent information on coronavirus, also called COVID-19, to make sure that you stay informed during this confusing time.
What is coronavirus (COVID-19)?
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was first identified during an outbreak that occurred in Wuhan, China. It is a respiratory illness that can spread from person-to-person. This is a novel coronavirus.
What Are the Symptoms of Coronavirus Disease 2019?
It is important to know what symptoms to look for during this time. They are like the flu or a cold but do differ. The COVID-19 symptoms are:
- Shortness of breath
- Fever
- Cough
What Are Severe Complications of This Virus?
The virus while having a high survival rate does come with certain complications that could be fatal. Some patients have pneumonia in both lungs and multi-organ failure.
How Does COVID-19 Spread?
It is estimated that the virus in causes COVID-19 originated from an animal source but is now being spread between people. It is thought to spread mainly with people who are close in contact (within 6 feet) by respiratory droplets produced from coughs or sneezes. It is possible that COVID-19 can be contracted by touching a surface or object that has the virus and then touching your face. However, this is not thought to be the main way in which the virus is spread. To know more about the spread, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/transmission.html.
Where Has Coronavirus Disease 19 Spread?
The bulk of the cases of COVID-19 have spread throughout China, parts of Europe, Canada, and the United States. The current number of cases in the U.S. can be found at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/cases-in-us.html. Plus, if you would like to learn more about other places with ongoing spreads, you can visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/transmission.html#geographic.
How Can I Protect Myself?
To avoid contracting this respiratory illness, there are few preventive actions to take each day:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% of alcohol.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.
- Disinfect frequently touched surfaces often.
How To Keep From Spreading The Illness If You Are Sick?
If you are sick, it is important to avoid spreading the illness. To do so, follow these practices:
- Stay home.
- Cover your cough and sneeze.
- Disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
Is There a Vaccine?
While experts are working hard, there is currently no vaccine for COVID-19. The best way to prevent getting sick is to stick to preventative actions.
Is There a Treatment?
You can seek medical care to help relieve the symptoms, however, there is no specific antiviral treatment available for COVID-19.
What Should I Do If I Recently Traveled From An Area With COVID-19 Cases?
If you have recently traveled from an infected area, you may have restrictions on your movements for up to two weeks. If you develop symptoms during that period, seek medical advice. It is important to call the office of your doctor or healthcare provider before going and tell them about your symptoms and travel dates. They will give you instructions. While sick, stay home and limit contact with people.
We want all our patients to stay healthy during this time. For more information on the Coronavirus visit: www.cdc.gov/COVID19
