Coronavirus (COVID-19)
If you turn on the TV, pick up a newspaper or go on the Internet, you’ll likely hear news about the Coronavirus outbreak. The new virus was officially reported by the World Health Organization (WHO) on Jan. 9. Coronavirus has symptoms similar to a respiratory illness, including fever, cough, and shortness of breath – and in some cases can cause death. So far, cases have been reported across parts of China and several other countries, including confirmed cases in the United States.
What You Need to Know
- At the present, there is no specific vaccine to prevent Coronavirus (COVID-19).
- The CDC does not recommend the use of facemasks for the general public to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
- If you are concerned that you may have been exposed to COVID-19, contact your healthcare provider and monitor your health for 14 days from last possible exposure.
- If you have traveled to China or were in close contact with someone with COVID-19 and begin to feel sick with fever, cough, or difficulty breathing within 14 days, seek medical care right away. Call ahead and tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms. Avoid contact with others and follow preventive practices as outlined below.
- There is no specific treatment for COVID-19. If you become infected, you will receive supportive care to help relieve symptoms.
- If you are sick with COVID-19, you can prevent the spread of the virus by following the steps listed on the What to Do if You are Sick page of the CDC website.
- You can stay current with the most up-to-date information by visiting the 2019 Novel Coronavirus page on the CDC website.
What You Should Do
To help protect yourself and your loved ones, follow good prevention practices, including:
- Hand washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use of alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact or sharing cups or eating utensils with people who are sick.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze then throw the tissue in the trash.
New West Physicians has joined Optum and we would like to offer you their Public Crisis Line: Our toll- free emotional support help line at (866) 342-6892 is free of charge and available to anyone, so you can share it with family and friends. Caring professionals will connect people to resources. It will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Recommended Public Health Resources:
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – http://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.htmls
World Health Organization (WHO) – https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019
Tags: #ColoradoMetro, awareness, Coronavirus, COVID-19, health