Steps To Help Prevent The Spread Of COVID-19: What To Do If You Are Sick
The rapid spread of the virus that causes COVID-19 has sparked alarm in communities worldwide, so much so there are many people stocking up on antibacterial soaps and gels, as well as purchasing face protection such as these clear face masks for increased safety measures. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. In the U.S., the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is advising people to social distance themselves from large groups of people and large events to help stop the spread of the virus.
If you are sick with COVID-19 or think you might have the virus, follow the steps below to help protect those around you.
- Stay Home – It has been proven, most people who are mildly ill with COVID-19 are able to recover. It is recommended that you do not leave the house unless you are going to see your doctor. If you are working, you need to discuss with your employer the PTO guide and regulations that may need to be accessed if you are sent home. If you are required to continue entering the workplace during the pandemic and subsequently get COVID yourself, then there may be certain instances where you can take legal action for what has happened to you – find out whether or not you can sue if you get COVID at work by speaking with lawyers who are well-versed on the subject.
- Stay In Touch With Your Physician – Call your physician before you seek medical care. If it is an emergency, be sure to call 911 to get care right away. Also, don’t self diagnose from the web, seek professional medical advice from a real doctor if you have health concerns.
- Avoid Public Transportation – Avoid using public transportation, ride-sharing, or taxis.
- Isolate Yourself – It is important to stay in a specific “sick room” and stay away from other people & family members in your home. Use a separate bathroom, if available.
- Limit Contact With Pets – There have not been reports of people passing the virus to domestic pets or vice versa but it is still recommended that people with the virus limit contact with their furry friends until more information is known.
If you are caring for yourself after being diagnosed with COVID-19, be sure to follow these SELF-CARE steps to ease your symptoms:
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Wash hands frequently
- Quarantine yourself to a “sick room”
- Avoid friends and family members
- Stay home
- Use a room humidifier
- Take a hot shower and breathe in the steam
- Follow the doctor’s orders