If you are concerned that you may have been exposed to, or are experiencing symptoms of Coronavirus (COVID-19), please use the following guidelines as a tool. Do not call 911 unless it is a medical emergency such as extreme difficulty breathing, chest pain or tightness.
Symptoms of coronavirus
The symptoms of coronavirus range from mild to severe. The most common symptoms are:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Aches and pains
- Runny nose, sore throat
- Diarrhea
Patients may notice that symptoms gradually worsen over the course of a few days. For most patients, these symptoms will resolve on their own after a few weeks.
However, older adults and people who have severe underlying medical conditions like heart or lung disease or diabetes seem to be at higher risk for developing more serious complications.
If you think you have coronavirus
Mild symptoms
If you have mild symptoms suggestive of coronavirus, the current advice is to stay at home and self-isolate for 14 days. Do not wait for a test before starting self-isolation. For more information on how to safely and effectively self-isolate at home, visit the CDC website: www.coronavirus.gov
Severe symptoms
Contact your primary care provider immediately. Do so by phone or use their telehealth service. Telehealth services give patients the ability to speak to a medical professional via their home phone, smartphone or computer.
Testing for coronavirus
Not everyone needs to be tested for coronavirus.
Each state conducts testing for coronavirus according to its own guidelines. You are urged to visit your state or county healthcare website for the most up to date information on where and how to get tested (if required).
Remember, the testing capabilities of each state (or county) are changing rapidly. So check their website frequently for updates.
Other coronavirus self-check websites and resources
- Centers for Disease control (Coronavirus.gov) https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/index.html
- Free COVID-19 screening tool: In partnership with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Apple has released a free online screening tool and app (iOS and Android) that allows users to screen themselves for coronavirus symptoms. https://www.apple.com/covid19
Emergency in Houston?
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