Coronavirus (COVID-19): What you should know

Coronavirus (COVID-19): What you should know

AICHC WILL SCREEN PATIENTS FOR COVID-19.
WE NOW OFFER COVID-19 TESTING AND MODERNA VACCINATIONS FOR THOSE WHO QUALIFY!

What is the Coronavirus/COVID-19?

The novel coronavirus is a newly discovered virus.  It causes an illness called COVID-19. Many of the symptoms are similar to the flu: dry cough, fever, difficulty breathing.

How do people catch COVID-19?

When people who are infected sneeze, cough, or touch objects with their hands, they leave behind the coronavirus germs.  Other people who breathe the air in the area of the infected person or touch objects they touched are then exposed.

How dangerous is COVID-19?

Most people who get sick with COVID-19 have a mild illness. Many of those infected don’t even know they have it. As with influenza, in some cases, it can lead to serious illness such as pneumonia and even death. It appears that patients over 60 and those with chronic medical conditions are most likely to develop severe illness and complications. The illness has not infected very many children and most of those cases have been very mild.

Is All-Inclusive CHC prepared?

Yes. We regularly treat patients with contagious illnesses. We have processes in place to lower the risk of illness for patients and staff. Our medical staff is keeping up to date on recommendations from local public health officials and the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).

Should I keep my medical appointment?

At this time, patients face no additional risk in our clinics. Please keep your appointment unless directed otherwise. If you believe you might have or have been exposed to the COVID-19, please call to speak to one of our medical staff before deciding to come in. All of our locations remain open to serve the community.

Should I wear a face-mask?

  • CDC recommends that people wear masks in public settings, like on public and mass transportation, at events and gatherings, and anywhere they will be around other people.
  • Masks should NOT be worn by children under age 2 or anyone who has trouble breathing, is unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.
  • Do NOT use a mask meant for a healthcare worker. Currently, surgical masks and N95 respirators are critical supplies that should be reserved for healthcare workers and other first responders.

Should I be tested for COVID-19?

All-Inclusive CHC follows the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health recommendations on testing. At this time only those patients who have symptoms of illness and who have a history of travel to specific high-risk countries or have been in contact with individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19 are recommended for testing. It is probable that these recommendations will change. We will be updating our recommendations to patients regarding testing as necessary.

What are the symptoms?

The most common symptoms of the novel coronavirus are fever, cough, shortness of breath, and breathing difficulties. If you have these symptoms and believe you have been exposed because of travel or nearness to someone identified with COVID-19, then call your doctor. Public health authorities will determine if you should be tested. If you have these symptoms and have NOT been exposed, chances are you have the flu or other common illness and should make an appointment to come in for care as usual.

What is All-Inclusive CHC doing to protect patients?

We are screening all patients for symptoms and travel history and taking extra sanitation precautions at all our clinic sites. Patients who we believe may have COVID-19 are referred to public health authorities for a COVID-19 test. For patients being tested or confirmed with novel coronavirus, we follow processes designed to prevent transmission of the infection.

What can I do to protect myself and others?

Public health officials recommend the following steps to prevent the spread of all respiratory viruses, including influenza and COVID-19.

  • Wash your hands frequently and for at least 20 seconds with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer. 20 seconds is one round of “The Alphabet Song” or two rounds of “Happy Birthday to You”.
  • Cough into your elbow or a tissue and not your hands. Dispose of the tissue.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home, work and school.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • If you are sick, stay home and do not travel or report to work.
  • Practice healthy habits: Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food.

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Posted in: AICHC News, Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses

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