COVID-19 is a new strain of coronavirus that was first detected in China in December of 2019. Since that time, it has spread around the world rapidly, dominating headlines. While most people who catch this virus experience mild symptoms and fully recover, it is dangerous for the elderly and people with existing health conditions such as heart disease or cancer. Doctors and oncologists agree that the best way to stop the spread of COVID-19 is to take preventative measures to avoid exposure. The below guide provides a few tips to help keep you and your family safe.

How COVID-19 Coronavirus Spreads

Like the flu and the common cold, COVID-19 spreads from person to person. Coming into contact with infected fluids from coughing or sneezing, or touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes, can transmit the virus. This is how COVID-19 can spread so quickly—we hug, kiss, and shake hands with people every day, as well as touch doorknobs, keyboards, handrails, and other germy surfaces.

What You Can Do to Protect Yourself

The best way to protect yourself from contracting COVID-19 is to wash your hands regularly. Use soap and water to scrub your fingers and palms for 40 to 60 seconds, especially before eating and after using the bathroom, blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer as a substitute if you cannot get to a sink.

You should also practice respiratory hygiene, which means using a tissue when you cough or blow your nose, and throwing it away immediately when finished. If you do not have a tissue on hand, cover your mouth and nose with the crook of your arm rather than your hands. Distance yourself as best you can from other people whenever you cough or sneeze.

Finally, pay close attention to how you’re feeling. Stay home from work or school if you feel sick, and contact your doctor if you experience fever, cough, and shortness of breath, which are symptoms of COVID-19. If you have an existing condition such as cancer, speak with your oncologist about additional measures you can take to protect your health.

Navigating a public health crisis can feel especially frightening when you’re a cancer patient. The oncologists at Tennessee Plateau Oncology – Dirk Davidson M.D., provide compassionate, personalized care, so you always feel safe, informed, and in control of your treatment. For more than 20 years, they’ve offered individuals in Crossville, TN, and the Cumberland Plateau area state-of-the-art cancer treatments in a warm and welcoming environment. Visit their website to learn more about the staff, and call (931) 484-7596 to schedule a consultation with an oncologist today.