Over two million Americans have contracted the COVID-19 virus. No one wants to be the next victim of this pandemic, but the reality is that anything can happen, even when you are taking the necessary precautions. Getting infected with the coronavirus can be scary, but you want to take the appropriate measures to ensure your recovery and protect those around you and prevent the transmission of the disease. What exactly should you do if you become infected with the coronavirus?

Contact a Medical Provider ASAP 

If you truly believe that you have the coronavirus, please contact your trusted medical provider ASAP. Symptoms of COVID-19 may include but are not limited to fever, headache, cough, difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, sore throat, and congestion. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you might have the coronavirus. Keep in mind that most individuals have mild illness and recover at home. Be sure to monitor your symptoms and call your doctor or the urgent care center before visiting. 

Prevent Transmission of COVID-19 if Infected

Patients that have a case of the coronavirus need to stay hygienic and maintain a clean household. If you are sick, you should endeavor to prevent the spread of the coronavirus in your home and the larger community, while you care for yourself. Some steps that you can take includes:

• Remain at home and stay away from public areas, except in the case of getting medical care.
• If you have mild symptoms and can recover at home, rest up and stay hydrated. Since coronavirus prevention and treatment is very similar to influenza and the common cold, take over-the-counter medicines, like acetaminophen to help with fever and ache. Isolate yourself from others if you live in a shared space. Do not share personal household items, like dishes, cups, utensils, or towels with others in the home.  
• Stay in contact with your doctor as you monitor your symptoms and receive treatment. Adhere to the care instructions by both your doctor and local health department, and accurately report required information during treatment.
• In case you have a medical appointment that is not routine, contact your doctor’s office, and inform them that you have or may have the coronavirus. This way the office can take measures to prevent transmission.
• Seek medical attention if your illness requires immediate care. Be sure to inform the 911 operator that the person seeking care has COVID-19.

Medical Emergency Procedures

In the event of a medical emergency make sure you contact an emergency care provider by dialing 911. Serious cases of the virus can cause patients with weakened immune systems to have difficulty breathing and asphyxiation. Emergency medical care is needed immediately in such emergency situations. COVID-19 patients with underlying medical issues or chronic illnesses, like diabetes and hypertension, could develop complications that require emergency care.

Make sure you get tested for COVID-19 at a local urgent care center if you think that you may have COVID-19 or are experiencing symptoms related to the disease. The earlier you know your status, the sooner you can begin treatment and protect your immediate and larger community. You have a responsibility to care for your health and also protect the community from the transmission of COVID-19.