The Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has been on the minds of everyone in the country over the last few months. With concerns rising, it is important to get ahead of it and prevent it from spreading further. This begins with being aware of the signs and symptoms of the disease. If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and start to develop symptoms, call your healthcare provider for medical advice.
What are the Symptoms?
The reported cases of Coronavirus throughout the world began with a range of mild to severe symptoms. Individuals can begin to experience these between two and 14 days after their initial exposure to the illness. Symptoms include the following:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
While this is true, there are some cases in which those who are infected can develop emergency warning signs. When this happens, these individuals should seek out medical attention immediately. Emergency warning signs can include but are not limited to:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
- New confusion or inability to arouse
- Bluish lips or face
What Do I Do if I Suspect I’ve Been Exposed?
If you have been exposed to the Coronavirus and begin to experience symptoms, it is important to act by implementing the proper safety measures to take care of yourself and limit the disease from continuing to spread. This can be possible with the following:
- Stay at home and avoid public areas/transportation.
- Practice social distancing by staying away from others and limiting contact with pets and animals.
- Call your doctor ahead of time before visiting
- Wear a mask if you are sick or taking care of others
- Cover your coughs and sneezes with your elbows, wash your hands immediately after, and dispose of any used tissues
- Clean your hands with soap and water and use hand sanitizer often
- Avoid touching your face
- Do not share household items such as dishes, drinking glasses, utensils, bedding, etc. with others
- Frequently clean surfaces that you touch often, such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, bathrooms, etc.
- Monitor your symptoms and call a doctor if they begin to worsen
