*4*Answers
COVID-19: General Information
-
What is COVID-19?
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person. The virus that causes COVID-19 is a novel coronavirus that was first identified during an investigation into an outbreak in Wuhan, China.
Please note that COVID-19 is a new disease and the CDC is still learning how it spreads, the severity of the illness it causes, and to what extent it could spread in the United States.
For more information on COVID-19, please visit the CDC website here.
-
Is it contagious?
Because the virus is thought to spread from person to person, COVID-19 can spread:
• Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
• Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.There is a possibility that a person can contract COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.
For more information on how COVID-19 may be transmitted, visit the CDC website here.
-
Who is most susceptible to COVID-19?
Older adults and people who have severe underlying chronic medical conditions like heart or lung disease or diabetes seem to be at higher risk for developing more serious complications from COVID-19 illness. Please consult with your health care provider about additional steps you may be able to take to protect yourself.
For more information, visit the CDC website here.
-
What should I do if I have symptoms of COVID-19?
Call your doctor if you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop a fever and symptoms, such as cough or difficulty breathing. Call your healthcare provider for medical advice. If you think you have been exposed, the CDC recommends:
• Stay home except to get medical care
• Separate yourself from other people and animals in your home
• Call ahead before visiting your doctor
• Wear a face mask if you are sick
• Cover your coughs and sneezes
• Clean your hands often
• Avoid sharing personal household items
• Clean all “high-touch” surfaces everyday
• Monitor your symptomsFor more information on the steps to take when sick, visit the CDC website here.
-
Resources:
T4 Tip
For the most up-to-date COVID-19 travel information, visit the CDC COVID-19 Travel page.