Coronavirus: Get the Facts

Answers to the most frequently asked questions about the new coronavirus COVID-19

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What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a newly discovered coronavirus that causes respiratory illness. It was first detected in China, but has now spread to 100+ locations internationally, including the United States. Because COVID-19 is so new, not much is known about it, but scientists and sharing new findings daily.

 

How does COVID-19 spread?

COVID-19 is spread just like the cold or flu. Experts believe the virus spreads between people who are in close contact (within about 6 feet) through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or eyes.

 

What are the symptoms of COVID-19, and what do I do if I think I’m sick?

If you have any of the following symptoms, call your doctor or seek care through a telemedicine provider immediately and do not go in person unless directed by a healthcare professional:

• Fever

• Cough

• Shortness of breath

 

Get medical attention immediately if you or a loved one are exhibiting any of these emergency warning signs:

• Difficulty breathing

• Persistent pain or pressure in the chest

• New confusion or inability to arouse

• Bluish lips or face

 

Take steps to stop the spread to those around you:

• Stay home except to seek medical care

• Cover your mouth and nose with the crook of your arm or a tissue when sneezing or coughing. Dispose of the tissue immediately and wash your hands.

• Do not use public transportation

• Stay away from others in your home as much as possible

• Wear a facemask (this only applies if you are sick and will not prevent you from getting the illness from someone else)

• Do not share personal household items like cups, dishes, towels, or bedding

• Clean all high-touch surface areas with a disinfectant

 

How do I reduce my risk of contracting COVID-19?

• Listen to and follow the directions of your state and local authorities

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds each time

• Avoid touching your face, especially your nose, eyes, mouth and ears

• Limit all non-essential travel and keep up to date with all travel advisories

• Avoid social gatherings, close contact with others and practice social distancing

• Do not go to restaurants, bars, theatres, clubs, concert venues, gyms, or other establishments where more than 10 people gather

• Clean commonly touched surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, laptops and phones with a disinfectant

What is social distancing?

Social distancing refers to any action that’s intended to reduce contact between individuals. The goal is to slow the community spread of the disease, or the transfer of the disease due to regular interactions like shopping for groceries or socializing. The CDC recommends maintaining a six-foot distance from other people, but other measures can include the closure of restaurants, bars, venues and so on.

 

If I’m not sick, why do I have to follow these guidelines?

If you don’t have symptoms, you can you still spread COVID-19 to others. Many cases of COVID-19 are asymptomatic, meaning the person is a carrier but shows no symptoms. In those cases, they can spread the virus to others without knowing they’re infected.

 

This helps protect more at-risk groups who are more likely to develop serious complications or become critically ill from COVID-19. While there are other factors that come into play, some at-risk groups include:

• Older adults who are 60 or older

• People with a serious chronic medical condition, such as heart disease, diabetes, lung disease or cancer. The risk increases with multiple conditions.

• Any immuno-compromised individual

 

Where can I find more information?

There is new information coming out daily about COVID-19. Avoid unverified news sites or social media and stay up to date with these resources:

• About Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)

• Basic Protective Measures Against the New Coronavirus

• Coronavirus Disease 2019 Situation Summary: USA

• COVID-19 Updates from the World Health Organization

• Coronavirus Disease 2019 Information for Travel