UNDERSTANDING COVID-19

  • COVID-19 is spread by close person-to-person contact and over long distances through respiratory droplets from speaking, coughing or sneezing.
  • Symptoms may appear two to 14 days after exposure to the virus that causes COVID-19. A person does not have to have symptoms to spread the virus.
  • COVID-19 can be diagnosed with a laboratory or at-home antigen test.
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symptoms of COVID-19 INCLUDE:

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    Fatigue

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    Headache

  • Coughing

    Cough

  • Icon of man with sore throat

    Sore throat

  • High temperature

    Fever or chills

  • illustration of a man with a runny nose

    Congestion or runny nose

  • Illustrated man experiencing difficulty breathing

    Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

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    New loss of taste or smell

  • Icon of man cradling stomach

    Diarrhea

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    Muscle or body aches

  • Icon representing man who is ill

    Nausea or vomiting

In some cases, it can lead to severe respiratory problems, kidney failure or death.

The Best Ways to Protect Yourself

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    Get vaccinated as soon as you can.

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    Wear a face mask when in public to help prevent the spread of the virus.

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    If not wearing a mask, cough or sneeze into a tissue or bent elbow. Throw the tissue in the trash. When wearing a mask, you can cough or sneeze into the mask. Change mask as soon as possible.

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    Stay at least 6 feet away from others.

  • An illustration of a swab and a vile used for covid-19 testing.

    Consider getting tested before joining indoor gatherings with others who are not in your household.

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    If you feel sick, stay home and call your health care provider.

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    Do not touch your face without washing your hands first.

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    Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

  • Scrubbing hands with soap and water

    Frequently wash your hands with soap and water or use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

  • Avoid crowds and poorly ventilated spaces. Avoid indoor spaces that do not offer fresh air.

WHEN TO SEEK MEDICAL attention

  • Call 911 if you have an emergency.
  • If you feel sick, stay home and call your medical provider.
  • Call your health care provider if you have been near someone with COVID-19.
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