COVID-19 Information

More information about Coronavirus

https://www.dshs.texas.gov/news/updates.shtm
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

What is the Coronavirus (COVID-19)?

Coronavirus is a family of viruses commonly found in people and animals. The Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a new type of coronavirus that was first discovered in China and has now spread to over 100 countries, this virus is more aggressive than the previous ones and has become a public health emergency.

Who is at risk?

We are all at risk, but studies have shown that the people with the worst outcomes are: older adults >65 years, people with serious chronic medical conditions: immune disease, heart disease, diabetes, and lung disease

What are the symptoms of Coronavirus?

Some symptoms of the coronavirus are very similar to the flu: fever, cough, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion or difficulty waking someone up, blue lips or face (this list is not all inclusive).

What to do if you have symptoms?

If you have symptoms you should call your local clinic or hospital and they should be able to direct you further, you should not show up to the ER or clinic asking for testing for coronavirus as it is not readily available yet. If you are very sick you should go to the ER or call 911, but if your symptoms are mild it is better to call, as we do not want to take medical resources and hospital beds away from people that are extremely ill and need them.

How is Coronavirus diagnosed?

Coronavirus is diagnosed by getting a swab of your nose and/or mouth. There are not many tests available to the public right now unless you meet certain symptom criteria determined by the Centers for Disease Control.

Is there a treatment?

Currently there are no approved treatments. Most treatments currently involve supportive care which means giving you medications for nausea, vomiting, or fever, giving you oxygen if you are having trouble breathing, and in the worst-case scenario, putting you on a breathing machine. They are currently working on a vaccine and also treatment, but there has been no posted timeline for when these will be available.

How to decrease my risk of contracting the virus?

Practice Good Hygiene-Wash your hands several times a day, do not share food or drinks, avoid personal contact with people with cold and flu symptoms, cover your mouth if you cough, wipe down all surfaces throughout the day, if you are sick and can find a mask, wear one and try as much as possible to isolate yourself from others. Stay home (if possible)-Avoid large gatherings, avoid public transportation.

We will continue to share updates on Coronavirus as they are made available to us.