What to do if you suspect you may be infected with the coronavirus
Make an appointment, before visiting a doctor.
If you suspect you are infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, follow these steps published on the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s website to help prevent spreading the disease to others:
* Stay home except to seek medical care.
* Restrict activities outside your home and do not go to work, school or public areas. Avoid public transportation, sharing rides or taxis.
* Stay away from other people and animals in your house. Rather stay in a specific room and use a separate bathroom, if available.
* Make an appointment, before visiting a doctor. Once you have made an appointment, call your healthcare provider and inform them that you have or suspect you have the COVID-19 infection. This will help them take steps to keep other people from getting infected or exposed.
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* Wear a face mask when you are around other people and pets, and before you enter a doctor’s office. If you are unable to wear a face mask because of respiratory problems, ensure others do before they enter your room.
* Cover your coughs and sneezes, and throw used tissues in a lined trash can. Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser. Clean your hands often.
*Avoid sharing personal household items such as dishes, glasses, cups, eating utensils, towels, or bedding. After using these items, wash them thoroughly with soap and water.
* Clean all ‘high-touch’ surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and bedside tables everyday. Also, clean any surfaces that may have blood, stool or body fluids on them.
READ ALSO: Coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms: What are they and how should you protect yourself?
* Monitor your symptoms and seek medical attention if your illness worsens, such as having difficulty breathing.
Source: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/steps-when-sick.html
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