Many people are feeling anxious about the coronavirus disease 2019, or COVID-19. You should learn as much as you can about the disease to avoid contracting it and spreading it to others. Here are answers to five common questions that health care experts have been receiving about COVID-19. 

What to Know About the Coronavirus

What exactly is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a respiratory disease caused by the coronavirus. This group of viruses causes illness in humans and animals. Some coronaviruses cause mild illnesses like the common cold. The coronavirus that causes COVID-19 is new, and scientists have only just identified it. 

How does it spread?

Experts believe the virus behind COVID-19 spreads mainly through person-to-person contact. People who are infected produce respiratory droplets when they cough or sneeze. If you’re within about 6 feet of an infected person, those respiratory droplets could end up in your mouth, nose, or lungs and cause you to contract the virus. 

What are the symptoms?

Common symptoms of COVID-19 are coughing, fevers, and fatigue. More severe symptoms include trouble breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, confusion, and diarrhea. 

How is it treated? 

Most people with COVID-19 can recover at home by getting plenty of rest, keeping warm, drinking plenty of liquids, and using a room humidifier or taking a hot shower to ease sore throats and coughs. However, people with more severe symptoms should visit a health clinic or hospital so they can receive care to support vital organ functions.

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, contact your health care provider to develop a specific treatment plan. Once symptoms pass, you should self-isolate for at least 14 days to avoid spreading the disease to others.

How can you avoid getting or spreading the disease?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends taking the following steps to avoid contracting or spreading COVID-19:

• Stay away from people who are sick.
• Stay home if you’re sick.
• Don’t touch your face. 
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue and immediately throw the tissue in the trash.
• Frequently wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after you use the bathroom or before you eat.
• If you can’t access soap and water, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. 
• Use a regular household cleaning spray to clean and disinfect objects you often touch, such as phones, keyboards, and door handles. 
• Because face masks may be limited in supply, only wear one if you have symptoms of COVID-19 or if you’re caring for someone who has symptoms. 

If you think you or a loved one may be suffering from COVID-19, turn to Bayside Community Hospital in Anahuac, TX. For 70 years, the hospital has provided comprehensive health care services to families throughout Chambers County. Learn more about the medical center online or call (409) 267-3143 to schedule an appointment.