COVID-19 is short for Coronavirus Disease 2019. The novel virus that causes COVID-19 is known as SARS-CoV-2, which stands for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2. There are different types of Coronaviruses, many of which cause the common cold. SARS-CoV-2, sometimes referred to as the novel Coronavirus or simply CoV-2, is much more contagious and potentially dangerous. Reported illnesses have ranged from mild symptoms to severe illness and death for confirmed COVID-19 cases. Older adults and people who have severe underlying medical conditions like heart or lung disease or diabetes seem to be at higher risk for developing more serious complications from COVID-19 illness.
Watch for symptoms of:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
These symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure (based on the incubation period of MERS-CoV viruses).
Seek medical attention immediately if you develop emergency warning signs for COVID-19. These include*:
- Trouble breathing
- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
- New confusion or inability to arouse
- Bluish lips or face
*This list is not all-inclusive. Please consult your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning.
STOP THE SPREAD OF GERMS!
Clean your hands often
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Avoid close contact
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- Remember that some people without symptoms may be able to spread virus.
Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others
- You could spread COVID-19 to others even if you do not feel sick.
- Everyone should wear a cloth face cover when they have to go out in public, for example to the grocery store or to pick up other necessities.
- Cloth face coverings should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.
- The cloth face cover is meant to protect other people in case you are infected.
- Do NOT use a facemask meant for a healthcare worker.
- Continue to keep about 6 feet between yourself and others. The cloth face cover is not a substitute for social distancing.
Clean and disinfect
- Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.
- If surfaces are dirty, clean them: Use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.
Author
Dr. Michael Lum
Dr. Michael Lum is the founder of Lumier Medical, Inc., an aesthetic medical practice. He also has been an independent faculty trainer with the Esthetic Skin Institute for over a decade. He has trained thousands of licensed healthcare providers on the safe use of lasers and light devices, botulinum neurotoxins, soft tissue fillers, Sculptra®, sclerotherapy, PRP, PDO threads and other innovative treatments.
