The NATIVE Project staff know you may have many questions about COVID-19. To help give you confident and correct information here is a list of common questions and answers from the CDC.
Common Questions:
What is a novel coronavirus?
A novel coronavirus is a new virus that has not been previously identified. COVID-19 is not the same as the other coronaviruses (like colds) that circulate among humans.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
Some of the symptoms include:
- New loss of taste or smell
- Fever over 100.4
- Difficulty Breathing
- Cough
- Persistent Headache
- Diarrhea or Vomiting
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms please schedule a test right away.
How does the virus spread?
The virus is spread through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person breathes, talks, sings, laughs, coughs or sneezes. The droplets travel through the air and can land on people that are within six feet of one another. These particles can be inhaled into the nose and mouth, which can lead to infection. This is thought to be the main way the virus spreads. However, droplets can also land on surfaces/objects and be transferred by touch as well. The primary means of disease spread is by air and is extremely contagious.
What if I have been exposed to the virus?
The best way to protect yourself and others is to stay home for 14 days if you think you’ve been exposed to someone who has COVID-19. Be alert for symptoms. Watch for fever, cough, shortness of breath, or other symptoms of COVID-19. If possible, stay away from others, especially people who are at higher risk for getting very sick from COVID-19.
When should I get tested?
The CDC recommends people get tested in the following scenarios:
- People who have symptoms of COVID-19
- People who have had close contact (within 6 feet for a total of 15 minutes or more) with someone with confirmed COVID-19, especially if not all people in close proximity were wearing a mask or face shield.
- People who have taken part in activities that put them at higher risk for COVID-19 because they cannot socially distance as needed. The activities include, travel, attending large social or mass gatherings, or being in crowded indoor settings
- People who have been asked or referred to get testing by their healthcare provider, local health or state health department
Not everyone needs to be tested. If you do get tested, you should self-quarantine/isolate at home pending test results and follow the advice of your health care provider or a public health professional.
How can I be protected?
The CDC recommends the following:
- Wearing face masks/shields over both your mouth and nose whenever you are in public or with people outside of your immediate household.
- Stay socially distant (6 feet apart) from one another
- Gather in groups of 5 or less, preferably outside or in well ventilated areas
- Try not to touch your face or eyes
- Wash hands often
- Frequently wipe down objects with cleaning wipes
How should I handle my health issues?
It is still very important to continue taking care of your health and wellness. Continue your medications, and do not change your treatment plan without talking to your healthcare provider. Continue to manage any existing health conditions the way you and your healthcare provider have agreed upon. Talk to your healthcare provider about whether your vaccinations are up-to-date. Try to manage your stress and ask for help if you experience depression, anxiety or thoughts of hopelessness.
For more general information about COVID-19 please visit the following site:
Questions? Call us at 509-483-7535. Be Well!