We are learning more and more about Coronavirus (COVID-19) and moving closer to effective treatments and eventually a vaccine. We can all play our part to slow the spread by following the CDC’s guidelines.
How it spreads
According to the CDC, Coronavirus is thought to primarily spread from person-to-person – those who are in close proximity (within six feet)mainly through respiratory droplets from coughs or sneezes. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. Some recent studies have suggested that COVID-19 may be spread by people who are not showing symptoms.
Based on information about this novel coronavirus thus far, it seems unlikely that COVID-19 can be transmitted through food – additional investigation is needed.
At this time, there is no evidence that companion animals, including pets, can spread COVID-19 to people or that they might be a source of infection in the United States. To date, CDC has not received any reports of pets becoming sick with COVID-19 in the United States.
Who is at risk?
Anyone can get COVID-19, but older adults and those with preexisting conditions have been the most vulnerable to COVID-19’s more serious consequences. If you have chronic medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or lung diseases (including asthma), take extra precautions. Be sure to follow recommendations from the CDC as well as local mandates.
Minimize your exposure
- Wash your hands. Soap and water are your most powerful defenses against exposure to all viruses, including COVID-19. Wash your hands often for a minimum of 20 seconds, especially if you have been in a public place or have coughed or sneezed. Wash thoroughly, including between your fingers, under your nails, and up your wrists. Soap and water are best, but in a pinch use a hand sanitizer that is at least 60% alcohol, rubbing your hands together until dry.
- Don’t touch your face. Viruses can enter through your mouth, nose and eyes so minimize contact with these vulnerable spots as much as you can.
- Keep your distance. Stay home and keep your distance from others as much as possible (at least six feet).
- Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others. You could spread COVID-19 to others even if you do not feel sick. Everyone should wear a cloth face cover when they have to go out in public, for example to the grocery store or to pick up other necessities. The cloth face cover is meant to protect other people in case you are infected.
- Cover coughs and sneezes. If you are in a private setting and do not have on your cloth face covering, remember to always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow.
- Clean and disinfect. Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.
What to do if you get sick
While most people who contract COVID-19 will only experience mild symptoms, it is incumbent upon all of us to protect those who are most vulnerable to the virus. If you think you have the Coronavirus, use the CDC self-checker to help you make decisions for your healthcare needs and follow the guidelines below.
- Stay home. Do not go to public spaces or take public transportation. Do not leave the house until you have not had a fever without the use of a fever-reducing medication for at least 72 hours and other symptoms such as a cough or shortness of breath have improved. If you were tested for COVID-19 and will be tested to determine if you are still contagious, follow your doctor’s directions about when it is safe for you to leave home; your doctor will follow CDC protocol.
- Call your doctor. Call your doctor if you develop a fever, cough, or shortness of breath. If you need to go to your doctor’s office, walk-in clinic, or the emergency room, be sure to call ahead so that they can prepare. If you need to call 911, tell the operator that you have or may have COVID-19.
- Separate yourself. Isolate yourself as much as possible within your home, keeping others out of your bedroom and, if possible, using a separate bathroom to avoid getting family members sick.
- Cover your coughs/sneezes. Use a tissue and discard it in a lined trash can then wash your hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water isn’t available.
- Wear a facemask. When interacting with others or entering a medical facility, you should wear a facemask if one is available. Caregivers should wear a facemask when tending to someone who is sick.
- Wash hand often. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. This is especially important after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing; going to the bathroom; and before eating or preparing food.
- Clean high touch surfaces often. Clean and disinfect your room and bathroom while leaving other areas of the house to family members to clean and disinfect.
- Avoid sharing household items. Do not share: Do not share dishes, drinking glasses, cups, eating utensils, towels, or bedding with other people in your home.
Where to get information
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has set up a web page to keep the public informed and updated about COVID-19: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus.
We’re here to help
I’m is always here for you, and happy to answer your questions. We are providing prescription and over-the-counter delivery services as well as curbside service for all patients to keep you safe and healthy.
Nothing herein constitutes medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, or is a substitute for professional advice. You should always seek the advice of your physician or other medical professional if you have questions or concerns about a medical condition.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus