With coronavirus quickly spreading across the country, more people are concerned about acquiring this illness and what they should do if they start exhibiting symptoms. Below, the knowledgeable Fort Worth personal injury lawyers at Anderson & Cummings discuss what symptoms to watch out for, when to call a doctor and what steps to take to recover. We are available for a free consultation over the phone.
Symptoms of Coronavirus
The symptoms of COVID-19 range from mild to severe respiratory illness. The following symptoms may appear two to 14 days after initial exposure:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
These symptoms may be very similar to those for cold or flu, and without clinical testing, it can be difficult to determine if they are from COVID-19.
Emergency warning signs that warrant seeking immediate medical attention include:
- Trouble breathing
- Persistent chest pain or pressure
- Bluish lips or face
- Confusion
While most cases of COVID-19 are classified as mild infections, some have resulted in severe pneumonia and even death.
Call a Doctor First
For mild symptoms or if you believe you may have been exposed to COVID-19, call your healthcare provider first. Your provider may have special procedures in place that can allow you to receive treatment while minimizing exposure to staff or other patients.
What to Do If You May Be Sick?
It is important that you seek treatment if you are sick. While there is no specific cure or vaccine yet for coronavirus, medical intervention may be able to treat some of the underlying symptoms. Seek immediate medical attention if your illness is worsening or you are experiencing emergency warning signs. Call 911 or the emergency room and explain your symptoms. They will give you further instructions. Follow all instructions that your health care provider and local health department give you.
Due to the highly contagious nature of this illness, the CDC recommends that you take appropriate steps to protect your family and other members of your community, including:
Stay Home
It is important that you have as little contact with others to help prevent the virus from spreading. Stay home except for when you are seeking medical treatment. Avoid all public areas, including but not limited to:
- Restaurants
- Grocery stores
- Convenience stores
- Parks
- Public transportation, taxis or ridesharing
Wearing a Facemask
Wear a facemask before you enter a medical facility or when you will be around others.
Limit Contact with Others
Stay in a sick room while at home and avoid contact with others in your home. Use a separate bathroom if possible. Additionally, avoid people who are more likely to suffer severe complications of COVID-19, including elderly individuals and those with compromised immune systems.
Also, restrict contact with pets or other animals.
Cover Your Cough and Sneezes
Since the virus is transmitted from bodily fluid droplets, it is important to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. Cough or sneeze into a tissue and then dispose of it in a lined trash can.
Wash Your Hands
To prevent the spread of the illness, wash your hands often and after every time you cough or sneeze. Use soap and water and wash your hands for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water is not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol.
Do Not Touch Your Face
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth as much as possible.
Do Not Share Household Items
Even though you will try to eliminate germs with frequent handwashing, take an additional step to avoid exposure by not sharing household items with others while you are sick. This includes the following:
- Dishes
- Eating utensils
- Drinking glasses
- Towels
- Bedding
Wash these items thoroughly with soap and water after you use them.
Also, avoid using frequently used items like the remote control that others may also use in your household.
Clean Everything
Clean and disinfect your home often, including all objects that are often touched.
Start Your Claim from Home
At Anderson & Cummings, we realize that your health is your number one priority, so we offer the option to start your personal injury claim from home. We are prepared to help hold negligent individuals or entities who have harmed you accountable for their actions – all within the safety of your home.
Contact us today at (817) 920-9000 to get started or fill out our free online form.