Coronavirus disease is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person through contact with respiratory secretions. This is an airborne illness meaning you can become infected by being in the same space as someone who has the infection. You can also get this infection by touching contaminated
surfaces and then touching your face (eyes, nose, mouth). Coronavirus can live on surfaces anywhere from 4 hour to 3 days. The incubation period, or the time it takes to be exposed to manifesting disease symptoms, is generally 2-14 days with most patients noting symptoms in about 5 days after
exposure. Symptoms can be mild to severe and include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, malaise, body aches, shortness of breath and less commonly nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Symptoms tend to be most severe in people who are frail with compromised immune systems such as the elderly or
those with underlying illnesses. People with asthma or copd are at particularly higher risk. While many people recover uneventfully from mild symptoms, others can have severe respiratory distress and can progress to multi-system organ failure and ultimately death. It is also important to note that people who have been
exposed but are not ill, can still spread the infection to others!
We do not currently have a cure therefore, each and everyone of us is compelled to do our part to minimize the spread of this disease by constant disinfection and
maintaining social distance. You should try not to be within 6 feet of anyone who is not a household contact. Hand washing should be emphasized constantly for 20
seconds. Hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol can be used if soap and water are not available. You can create a bleach solution with 1/2 teaspoon of bleach per gallon of water which is safe for the skin and can be used to disinfect surfaces. Personal household items should not be shared and door handles should be wiped frequently.
Masks should be worn by anyone with respiratory symptoms and those who are caring for patients who may have COVID-19. Wearing a mask does not prevent transmission and is not recommended for healthy asymptomatic people.
Anyone with respiratory symptoms should stay confined to their home with the exception of seeking medical care if needed. Treatment is supportive care which means rest, hydration, bland food, steam and over the counter medication to relieve respiratory symptoms such as cough medication and topical nasal steroids and decongestants. Steam is also very helpful to relieve sinus and chest congestion. If you develop shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, you need immediate medical attention. Please call your doctors office for advise rather than walking in to the clinic. We are doing telephone visits and may also be able to
provide video visits depending on availability of equipment.
We have suspended routine appointments to minimize exposure risk, but the Elgin and Aurora Open Door Health Centers are open to address any and all issues by phone. Please call us if you have any questions or concerns and above all stay safe!!