We have decided to pull some basic information about the ongoing coronavirus pandemic to better inform the public on what exactly the world is dealing with.
The following fact sheet from the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services details what families can do to prevent the spread of coronavirus, who is at risk and how to seek treatment.
There are some common sense measures everyone can take to protect themselves and others from the spread of respiratory illnesses like COVID-19.
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds at a time.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are ill.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
- Do not reuse tissue after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces that are frequently touched.
Limiting the exposure of your nose, mouth and eyes to unwashed hands can help to protect from the spread of all germs and illnesses. It is not recommended that people wear masks if they are well or stockpile them. Masks should be worn by people who are sick to prevent the spread of infection.
Go to Household Preparedness to learn more about having a household plan.
People at higher risk for severe illness
Older adults and people who have severe chronic medical conditions like heart, lung or kidney disease and those with weakened immune systems seem to be at higher risk for more serious COVID-19 illness. Early data suggest older people are twice as likely to have serious COVID-19 illness.
Pregnant women and children
There is limited information so far about COVID-19 in pregnant women. Pregnant women are at higher risk from influenza and other respiratory viruses, so they are encouraged to be extra vigilant. There is no evidence that children are more susceptible to COVID-19. The CDC has information specifically for pregnant women and children.
MotherToBaby has evidence-based resources including factsheets and podcasts, and can be reached with questions or for advice.
People who have recently traveled outside the United States
If you have recently traveled to any country with a Level 2 or Level 3 Travel Health Notice for COVID-19 and are experiencing fever and respiratory symptoms, you should call your doctor or health department and describe your symptoms and where you traveled.
People who think they’ve been exposed to COVID-19
If you think you may have been exposed to the COVID-19 and develop symptoms, you may need to seek medical attention.
People without health insurance, who are not feeling well, should:
- Call your nearest Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC). If you feel you may have COVID-19, be sure to disclose that when you call to obtain an appointment. FQHCs are community-based health care providers that receive federal funds to provide needed health services in communities across the state.
- If you are not able to be seen at an FQCH, call your local health department. Free and charitable clinics may also be able to provide assistance. A map of these resources, including contact information, is provided by the Office of Rural Health.
- If you are having a medical emergency, call 911 or call ahead then go to the Emergency Room.
(*Note: The Richmond Observer did not include all the hyper links from the page. Visit the page: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19-response-north-carolina/individuals-families )
