Much like the flu, individuals with compromised immune systems are at a higher risk for catching COVID-19, including the elderly and those with serious medical conditions. If you are generally in good health, the risk for contracting COVID-19 is low. You can prevent your chances of contracting illnesses, such as COVID-19, by taking these steps:
- Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds or more – watch "The Most Effective Way to Wash Your Hands” video
- If soap and water is not available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
- Stay home if you are sick
- Avoid contact with people who are sick
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, and then discard the tissue
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe
The CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., grocery stores and pharmacies), especially in areas of significant community-based transmission.
COVID-19 Symptoms:
The symptoms of COVID-19 can appear 2 to 14 days after exposure and typically present as mild to severe respiratory illness, including fever, cough and shortness of breath. Additional symptoms include chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, and new loss of taste or smell. Further, symptoms that indicate an emergency include trouble breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, confusion or inability to arouse, and bluish lips or face. Your health care provider is your best resource for information if you are feeling unwell.
If you don’t have a primary health care provider, call the New Jersey Department of Health hotline at 1-800-222-1222 or you can schedule a virtual visit with a doctor through the RWJBarnabas Health TeleMed® App. For further information and details visit www.rwjbh.org/telemed.