10 Frequently Asked Questions About Coronavirus (COVID-19

10 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) Answers provided by UT Physcians

1. How can I protect myself from COVID-19?

There are currently no vaccines available to protect you against human coronavirus infection. You may be able to reduce your risk of infection by doing the following:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. • Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol, if soap and water are not available.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

• Stay home when you are sick.

• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

2. Who should I call if I think I have COVID -19, or have been exposed to a person with COVID-19?

Contact your primary care provider.

3. Who is at a higher risk for COVID-19?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, individuals who have chronic conditions or are above the age of 70, are considered at the greatest risk for developing severe symptoms. You can also review the latest from the CDC on high risk information.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus

4. What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that causes the following symptoms:

• Fever • Cough • Shortness of breath

Symptoms may not appear up until 14 days after exposure.

5. How many people have been infected with COVID-19 in the United States?

Updated information can be found at: https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/geographical-distribution-2019-ncov-cases

6. Where did the current coronavirus originate?

A new coronavirus was identified in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China in late 2019. This new coronavirus is called the “SARS-CoV-2” and the disease COVID - 19. Chinese authorities identified the new coronavirus, which has resulted in thousands of cases throughout the world. The exact source of the virus has not yet been confirmed; however, it has been linked to large seafood and animal market in Wuhan, China, suggesting zoonotic origin.

7. How are most coronaviruses spread?

Most commonly, human coronaviruses are spread from an infected person to others through:

• By respiratory droplets when coughing and sneezing close personal contact, such as touch or shaking hands • Touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes before washing your hands

8. What are the treatments?

There are no specific treatments. Medical care is supportive and to help relieve symptoms.

9. When eating carryout, should I be concerned that an individual some

how contaminated my food by sneezing or touching it?

ted from high touch surfaces (door, table, chair, etc.). Ordering take-out food or having food delivered are both safer options.

10. How is UT Physicians helping to keep patients safe?

Beginning Monday, March 23, all UT Physicians clinics will expand the current modified screening process. Patients, visitors, and employees will take part in a brief survey and temperature reading when arriving for appointments. This will be in effect until further notice.

With these new protocols, it is recommended that patients arrive early for appointments. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. However, this is a rapidly evolving situation with COVID -19 and our utmost priority is the safety of our patient population and our employees.

We encourage everyone to be vigilant and help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses by practicing good hygiene, including:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. • Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol, if soap and water are not available. • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. • Avoid close contact with people who are sick. • Stay home when you are sick. • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

If you are experiencing symptoms related to COVID-19 or have been exposed to someone with the disease, you are asked to call your clinic prior to your appointment.