What should you do if you are infected with Coronavirus? There is so much information on how to prevent the spread of coronavirus, but not really enough on what to do if you are infected with Coronavirus (COVID-19) or suspect you have it. Currently, the supply for the coronavirus test kits is very limited and not everyone qualifies for testing.
If you are sick and have the coronavirus symptoms like fever, cough and difficulty of breathing, call your doctor as soon as possible. Your physician will give you advice and determine whether you need to get tested.
If you think you are infected with Coronavirus, show coronavirus symptoms, but still haven’t been tested, be sure to follow these safety guidelines:
Coronavirus Tip #1. Stay home
Be sure to stay home and isolate yourself from your family, pets and the community. If you live with someone or other family members, make sure you stay in a separate room. Avoid sharing dishes, utensils and glasses. Separate the things that you use. Do not go to work, school or any public area.
Coronavirus Tip #2. Call your doctor
Contact your doctor and be sure to tell him/her that you are showing all three signs (fever, cough, and difficulty breathing). If you traveled recently and have been exposed to someone with coronavirus, be sure to mention it as well. Your physician will tell you what to do and what not to do. However, if your symptoms are severe, you might want to call the emergency room or urgent care.
Coronavirus Tip #3. Going to your appointment
Before you go to the hospital or the doctor’s office for your appointment, please make sure to call your healthcare provider and tell them that you might have coronavirus so they can prepare ahead of time. This will ensure that the doctor, nurses and other healthcare professionals in the facility can prepare for your arrival. Please do not show-up without giving your healthcare provider a heads up.
Coronavirus Tip #4. Be sure to wear a facemask
It is very important that you wear a facemask especially when you are around other people to protect them from the coronavirus. When you go for your doctor’s appointment, make sure to wear a facemask to avoid the spread of the coronavirus. Please note that a regular mask is fine, you don’t need an N95 mask.
Coronavirus Tip #5. Wash Your hands
Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If you can’t wash your hands, use hand sanitizer with an alcohol content of at least 60% to kill the virus/bacteria. Ensure that you have washed your hands properly before touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Better yet, avoid touching them.
Coronavirus Tip #6. Clean and disinfect
It is essential that you clean and disinfect your house, especially the things you touch frequently. If you suspect that you have coronavirus, try not to touch surfaces or if you do, be sure to disinfect immediately.
Coronavirus Tip #7. Rest and hydrate
Drink lots and lots of fluids. Staying hydrated is very important. A lot of people end up in the Emergency Room due to dehydration.
Per the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
- if you have fever with cough or shortness of breath
- have not been exposed to someone with COVID-19
- have not tested positive for COVID-19
You should stay home away from others until 72 hours after the fever is gone and symptoms get better. If you feel that you have been infected with Coronavirus, it is essential that you monitor your symptoms. If your condition worsens, please be sure to call your doctor as soon as possible.
Remember, proper hygiene and social distancing are very important to stem the spread of the coronavirus as these prevent them from transferring to new hosts. Staying home is now a heroic act to protect each other.
Coronavirus Symptoms Chart:
This guide will help you determine if you have been infected by Coronavirus or if you have a common cold or flu. Please consult with your physician if you feel like you may have been infected with Coronavirus.
Follow this guide to help you and others stay protected. Please don’t forget to share with family, friends and loved ones.
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Catharine “Kate” is a Certified Administrator for Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFE) and an Expert Senior Care Advisor. Kate’s grandmother battled Alzheimer’s Disease and Kate personally understands what millions of families are going through. Kate and her team are very passionate in empowering Seniors and their families by providing them with the Best Available Senior Care Options based on Senior’s care needs, preferred location and family’s budget.
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