Tips for Staying Safe & Avoiding
Infection During the Pandemic
Information & Facts from the Centers for Disease
Control & Prevention (CDC)
By Lindsey Dossey
The Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has forced
everyone to re-think how they interact with people
outside of their homes. For many in high risk categories,
this is a scary situation. Cullman Regional is providing
factual information about COVID-19 as well as practical,
scientific proven tips for staying safe.
What is COVID-19?
This is a new coronavirus that has not been previously
identified. The virus causing coronavirus disease 2019
(COVID-19), is not the same as the coronaviruses that
commonly circulate among humans and cause mild
illness, like the common cold.
How Does COVID-19 spread?
There is currently no vaccine to prevent COVID-19;
therefore, the best way to prevent illness is to avoid
being exposed to this virus.
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H E A LT H C A R E : C U L L M A N R E G IO N A L
The virus is thought to spread mainly from personto-person
between people who are in close contact
with one another (within 6 feet) for longer than a few
minutes. The virus is spread through respiratory droplets
produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes or
talks. These droplets can land in the mouths, noses, or
eyes of people who are nearby or can be inhaled into the
lungs. According to the CDC, the virus may be spread by
people who are not showing symptoms.
CULLMAN COUNTY SENIOR MAGAZINE
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
People who have tested positive for COVID-19 have
reported a variety of symptoms ranging from mild to
severe. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure
to the virus. People with one or more of the following
symptoms may have COVID-19:
Fever or chills
Cough
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Fatigue
Muscle or body aches
Headache
New loss of taste or smell
Sore throat
Congestion or runny nose
Nausea or vomiting
Diarrhea
What if You Are Sick?
If you are sick with COVID-19 or think you might have
COVID-19, follow the following steps to care for yourself
and help protect other people.
- Stay home. Most people have mild illness. Do not leave
your home except to get medical care. Do not visit public
areas. Cancel any appointments that are non-essential,
such as hair appointments, dental appointments, etc.
- Take care of yourself. Get rest and stay hydrated.
Take over-the-counter medicines, such as Tylenol/
acetaminophen, to help you feel better.
- Stay in touch with your doctor. Call before you get
medical care. Be sure to get care if you have trouble
breathing.
- Separate yourself from other people. Stay in a specific
room and away from other people and pets in your home.
If possible, you should use a separate bathroom. If you
need to be around other people or animals in or outside
of your home, wear a cloth face covering.
- Monitor your symptoms such as fever, cough or other
symptoms. Follow care instructions provided by your
healthcare provider.
How Can You Protect Yourself?
• Wash Your Hands Often.
Wash your hands 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 available, use a hand sanitizer that contains
at least 60 percent 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.
Avoid close contact with people, especially people who
are sick. Maintain 6 feet between people, even in your