COVID-19 Information and Resources

Viruses are not independent organisms.  They cannot survive outside of a host for lengthy periods because viruses require the components of a cell to survive.  In broad strokes, once a virus enters a host, it invades cells, replicates and then spreads to other cells.  Sometimes, a virus can live within a host without causing illness to its host. Other times, the presence of a virus triggers the defense mechanisms available within the host. 
 
Coronaviruses are so-called because under a microscope, crown-like projections emanate from the cell infected with the virus.  When infected with a coronavirus, humans respond with symptoms akin to those seen with the common cold.
 
In late 2019, somewhere within the Wuhan province of China, this strain of coronavirus (COVID-19) that had not before been identified in a human host (which is why some refer to it as “novel”) moved from an animal host to a human host.  Scientists determined that the strain of coronavirus causing illness had jumped from an animal host to human hosts based upon the organic structure of the virus. 
 
With data stretching back to December 2019, scientists and medical professionals have drawn a few conclusions about COVID-19, in addition to making a few decisions related to prophylaxis and treatment of this virus.  Here is what you need to know
 
What You Kneed to Know
 
What are the signs and symptoms of COVID-19?

• Those who have tested positive for the virus have presented to medical professionals with the following signs and symptoms: fever, cough, body aches, general malaise (generally feeling unwell), difficulty breathing. 

 
How is it transmitted?

• As with other respiratory illnesses, and due to the incidence of this illness in our population, medical professionals believe transmission of the virus occurs through respiratory droplets.  Coughing and sneezing produce respiratory droplets.  Data from those in China who contracted the disease supports that close contact is necessary for the disease to be transmitted.

 
What population is most affected?

• Data reviewed to date indicates that the virus produces symptoms in those who are teenagers and older.  Those over the age of 80 and those who are immunocompromised or who have underlying respiratory disorders (e.g., asthma, emphysema, etc.) are more susceptible to this virus. 
• According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), anyone 60 and older are considered more susceptible to this virus. 

 
How should I proceed when I am in public?

• If you need to cough or sneeze, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue, or by placing your face in the bend of your arm. 
• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water.  When you do not have a sink available, using a hand sanitizer is a viable alternative.

 
Do I need to wear a mask?

• Recently, the CDC updated its position about the use of masks.  In environments where it is difficult to maintain the recommended 6-foot distance from another person, such as the grocery store or pharmacy, the CDC is recommending use of a mask.
• Because surgical masks and N-95 respirators are critical supplies that must be provided to healthcare workers, the CDC recommends use of a cloth face covering. Instructions for how to make a proper cloth face covering can be found within this link: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover.htmlwww.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover.html

 
What should I do if I think I have fallen ill?

• Contact the hospital in your community and ask the following:
  • Is Coronavirus testing available at the facility?
  • If I am unable to manage my symptoms, where should I go for treatment?

 
Is there a drive-through testing location near me?

• In some states, testing at a location outside of a hospital setting is being performed.  This enables you to undergo testing for Coronavirus without leaving your vehicle.  Essentially, after gathering salient details (e.g., name, date of birth, contact information, etc.) medical providers will take swabs of your nose and throat in order to assess if you have this virus. Notification of the results should occur within 24 hours.
• Be aware that testing in these locations will require an appointment, a referral from your primary care physician or both.  For these reasons, you should review the information about provided by the site of testing before attempting to undergo testing.
• Importantly, the medical providers taking these samples will likely be wearing what looks like a hazmat suit.  If you are bringing children to be tested, so that they are not frightened by these outfits, you will want to prepare your children for this possibility.
• Most states are providing drive-through testing.  A partial list of states and locations can be found here.

 
Before you seek testing, make sure to review the website for the provider and ensure you meet the criteria and/or have the necessary documentation to undergo testing at these sites.

If your state is not listed, continue to check the Department of Health website for your state for updated information about testing.  Every state's Department of Health website can be found at this link:
https://www.cdc.gov/publichealthgateway/healthdirectories/healthdepartments.html
Certain states may refer you to your county website for additional information.
 
Guidelines and recommendations about managing COVID-19 are available at the Center for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov.
 

---