Coronaviruses are part of a large family of viruses, which can sometimes cause lower-respiratory tract illnesses, such as pneumonia or bronchitis. Coronaviruses are thought to be responsible for up to one-third of upper respiratory infections, more simply known as the common cold.
COVID-19 is short for “coronavirus disease 2019.” This is the name that the World Health Organization (WHO) assigned to the illness caused by a newly discovered strain of coronavirus, which began its rapid spread in Wuhan City, China in December 2019.
The symptoms most commonly experienced include: fevers, cough and difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. Developing body aches, runny nose, sore throat, nasal congestion or diarrhea is also possible. In some cases people who are infected will not exhibit any symptoms, though most people experience a mild form of the disease, similar to a cold or flu virus. Certain groups of people may experience more serious illness, including older people (over the age of 65) and those with a history of medical conditions such as decreased immunity, high blood pressure, heart disease, chronic lung disease, chronic kidney disease or diabetes.
If you have any of the above symptoms and can answer yes to one or both of the following questions, then we ask that you stay at home and call the office to speak to a nurse before presenting to the office.
- Have you been in contact with anyone who either has been diagnosed with Coronavirus/COVID-19 and/or someone who is under investigation for having Coronavirus/COVID-19?
- Have you recently traveled to any of the following areas in the last 2 weeks?
- China
- Iran
- Italy
- Japan
- South Korea
The current strain, known as COVID-19, is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.
- Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
- Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.