By now, most people are familiar with the coronavirus disease outbreak. There are lots of stories out there — some true and some false.
Here’s what we DO know:
- The disease was first identified in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China sometime in December of 2019
- On February 11, 2020, the World Health Organization named the disease coronavirus disease 2019 (abbreviated “COVID-19”)
- This is a rapidly evolving situation
- The virus is thought to spread mainly from close person-to-person contact (within six feet)
- According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), your risk is dependent on exposure
COVID-19 Symptoms
Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure*:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
Call Bear Pond Family Medicine and Pediatrics at 860 744-2244 if you are experiencing these symptoms, or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19.
PLEASE NOTE: You will need a doctor’s order and valid ID to access Johnson Memorial Hospital’s drive-though COVID-19 testing. For more information on Johnson Memorial’s drive-in cornonavirus screening, click here.
In fact, in the United States there are significantly more hospitalizations and deaths from flu this year.**
So, What About the Flu?
The CDC reports high flu activity and it is expected to continue for a few more weeks. Of two types of flu strain — Influenza A and Influenza B — B strain viruses are the most commonly reported influenza viruses among children and young adults.
How to limit the spread of viral illness
One of the best — and simplest — ways to stop the spread of any airborne illness, such as the common cold and the flu, is:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
- Cover your cough with a tissue, then throw away the tissue and wash your hands
- Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects you touch, especially out in public
- Practice social distancing by keeping six feet away from others
- Wearing a mask will NOT help you if have a cough or cold; but it WILL help you prevent spreading of your sickness to others
If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, body aches, cough, headache, and fatigue, please contact Bear Pond Family Medicine & Pediatrics or call us 860 744-2244 to be assessed and schedule an appointment.
* CDC coronavirus in the United States. Visit the CDC website for the latest US map and up-to-date information.