This is a scary time for healthcare workers and civilians alike. COVID-19 has been confirmed in 46 states and the Dominican Republic, so it’s safe to say that anyone in the US is potentially at risk. As public fear of the coronavirus spreads, people want to know what healthcare workers are doing to combat the virus. The CDC has released a detailed list of COVID-19 guidelines for healthcare providers, but here’s a brief overview! 

Isolating Possible Coronavirus Patients

Healthcare providers are urged to triage and isolate any patient complaining of acute respiratory symptoms. The patient should be offered a mask and any staff involved in the triage process should wear protective gear too. Once a patient has been triaged, if the staff still believes it’s possible, they’re suffering from coronavirus, they should be quarantined until a test kit is available to confirm the diagnosis.

Healthcare providers are encouraging people who think they may have coronavirus to stay home unless symptoms are severe. You can contact your primary care provider or health department if you believe you might have coronavirus but your symptoms aren’t severe. This lowers the risk of infecting healthcare workers and other patients. 

Coronavirus Diagnosis 

Coronavirus is diagnosed using a test kit, but unfortunately, the number of coronavirus test kits available is limited. This is why the screening process is so extensive. Healthcare providers have to rule out the flu and other illnesses before a patient becomes eligible for a coronavirus test. 

AFC Urgent Care Stoneham is providing COVID-19 testing through a third-party vendor to help diagnose patients and assist in containment efforts. 

What You Can Do to Slow the Spread of Coronavirus 

Healthcare providers are busier now than ever and slowing the spread of the virus is the only way to keep our hospitals and doctors’ offices from becoming overwhelmed. You can help slow the spread of the coronavirus by practicing these healthy habits:

• Wash your hands frequently
• Avoid touching your face
• Practice social distancing – stay home unless you have to go out. If you do have to go out, avoid close contact with other people. No gatherings should include more than 50 people. 
• Cover you mouth and nose if you sneeze or cough 

People who are elderly, immunocompromised, or have underlying health conditions are at the highest risk for a severe coronavirus case. Young people may have mild symptoms or no symptoms at all, but they can still spread the virus to more high-risk patients. If you believe you have coronavirus or have been in contact with someone who has coronavirus, stay home and contact your local health department today!