covid-19 coronavirus

COVID-19 is a virus that is part of the Coronavirus family that can cause symptoms which include fever, cough, and shortness of breath.

Myths and rumors tend to dominate conversations about emerging illnesses, so the Centers for Disease Control and Indiana State Department of Health should be your trusted resources for the constantly changing and updating information about COVID-19. The CDC website link is above. Indiana Dept of Health link is below.

Avoid close contact with sick people. Wash your hands frequently using soap and water for 20 seconds or longer. Disinfect commonly touched surfaces like doorknobs, telephones, and keyboards. Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands. Some people are even politely declining handshakes and hugs.

Cough into your elbow or a tissue (and throw it in the trash) instead of your hand, and the same goes for sneezes.  

Signs and symptoms of a contagious illness should not be ignored. Avoid going to work or school if you are ill to help reduce the spread of disease.

Educate yourself on the facts and direct your friends, family, and coworkers to resources like the CDC or State Department of Health

NO, generally speaking, 911 should not be used if you're worried you have COVID-19.  However, 911 SHOULD be called for a person in respiratory distress and other life threatening symptoms.

 Call ahead to a healthcare professional if you develop a fever and symptoms of respiratory illness, such as cough or difficulty breathing, and have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19 or if you live in or have recently traveled to an area with ongoing spread. Tell your healthcare professional about your recent travel or contact. Your healthcare professional will work with your state’s public health department and CDC to determine if you need to be tested for COVID-19.