Coronavirus 411
This information has been reviewed and approved by Rosine Angbanzan, MPH (March 2022)
Coronavirus 411
Prevention tips, symptoms and treatment — here's what you need to know!
Tips for keeping the virus away:
- Wash hands often.
- Disinfect frequently touched objects & surfaces.
- Don't touch face with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Cover coughs & sneezes with tissue or elbow.
Symptoms (you may not have all)
Mild Symptoms
Begin Gradually
- Cough
Fever
Tiredness
Aches and pains
Chills
Repeated shaking with chills
Headache
Nasal congestion
New loss of smell or taste
Runny nose
Sore throat
Diarrhea
Severe Symptoms
Occur about a week into the illness
- Significant shortness of breath
- Low oxygen levels
- Pneumonia
- Kidney failure
- Hospitalization
- Liver failure
Treatment
- Stay home with fever, cough & sneezing - rest.
- Cover coughs and sneezes.
- Wash hands with soap often.
- Disinfect surfaces.
- Drink extra fluids.
- Follow doctor's advice.
- Use non-prescription care for other symptoms.
- Follow treatment plans for other conditions.
- Avoid other people.
When to Contact the Doctor
If symptoms do not improve or get worse
If treatments for other health conditions become challenging
Fever • Cough • Difficulty Breathing • Existing Chronic Disease >> CONTACT MEDICAL PROVIDER
Gloves
- Wear gloves when disinfecting surfaces, handling soiled laundry and when caring for others who are sick.
Disposable Facemask
- Wear if you have cold or flu symptoms and need to go out in public.
- If you are healthy, wear a surgical mask when caring for someone who is sick. Wear a cloth mask to go out in public.
- Wash your hands before and after placing a mask on and after taking it off.
Respirators
National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health (NIOSH)-approved respirators like KN95s and N95s offer the highest degree of safety from COVID-19 infection. When properly worn, they provide protection against airborne particles, including the virus that causes COVID-19. They also prevent your respiratory droplets and particles from escaping. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), these masks filter at least 95% of particles. However, you shouldn’t wear a respirator if you’re having trouble breathing.
For instructions on proper wear and fitting, consult these CDC recommendations.
The information on our website is medically reviewed and accurate at the time of publication. Due to the changing nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, information may have since changed. CDC.gov and your state’s health department may offer additional guidance. |