Information regarding Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
During these unprecedented times, we are here to serve our patients in the safest and most convenient way that we can. We want you to know that we are taking the following precautions to ensure your health and wellbeing:
- We will not abandon our patients. We will continue to be available to meet your needs for as long as it is safe to do so.
- Our facility is always highly sterile and clean, however, we are taking extra precautions during this time and adhering to state guidelines and recommendations.
- We are screening all patients for risk of COVID-19 and will reschedule any patients who fall into any risk category.
- Visitor restrictions have been instituted in patient care areas.
We remain committed to the safety or our patients, our team, and our community. We will continue to keep you updated through emails and social media.
About Coronavirus:
What is Coronavirus (COVID-19)?
COVID-19, also known as the Coronavirus, is a new respiratory disease that was first identified in Wuhan, China and thought to spread mainly from person to person.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms of COVID-19 may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of Breath
- Runny Nose
- Throat Pain
Who is at risk?
Currently, those at greatest risk of infection are persons who have prolonged, unprotected close contact with a patient with symptomatic, confirmed COVID-19 and/or those who live in or have recently been to areas with sustained transmission. In 80% of patients, COVID-19 causes only mild cold symptoms. Older adults and those with pre-existing medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease and lung disease, appear to be more vulnerable to the virus.
When and how is someone infectious?
The onset and period of infectiousness for COVID-19 are not yet known. Current study suggests that the incubation period may range from 2-14 days. The virus is now spreading from person-to-person, between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet) and through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can land in the mouth or nose of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
What is the source of the virus?
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses. Some cause illness in people, and others only infect animals. Rarely, animal coronaviruses that infect animals have emerged to infect people and then spread between people. This is suspected to have occurred for the virus that causes COVID-19.
What can I do to protect myself and others?
Public health officials recommend the following steps to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including influenza and COVID-19:
Avoid close contact with people who are sick
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
- Stay home when you are sick
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue
- Practice good hygiene by washing your hands often, using either soap and water or alcoholbased hand sanitizer for at least 20 seconds.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
What should I do if I get a fever?
If you are experiencing symptoms such as a fever, cough, or difficulty breathing – or if you have traveled to an area (either outside of the U.S. or within the U.S.) affected by the current strain of coronavirus – PLEASE LET YOUR PHYSICIAN KNOW IMMEDIATELY
Where can I get more information about COVID-19?
The following link can provide additional information regarding the coronavirus:
www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
