The below contain the answers to commonly asked questions about the coronavirus. Information has been gathered from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and The White House guidelines. We recommend visiting these websites for more in depth information :). John's Hopkins Medicine also provides a very helpful FAQ.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) is an illness caused by a virus that emerged in Dec 2019 and has spread across the globe. It can be spread from person to person and is diagnosed with a laboratory test. Symptoms can range from mild to severe.
Coronavirus is spread through droplets released into the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. You can become infected by coming into close contact (about 6 feet or two arm lengths) with a person who has the virus. Although it is primarily spread from person to person, you may also be able to get it by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it, and then by touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.
Work or engage in schooling from home whenever possible.
If you work in a critical infrastructure industry as defined by the Department of Homeland Security (healthcare services, pharmaceutical supply, food supply, you have the special responsibility to maintain your regular work schedule, but do follow guidelines to protect your health at work.
Practice social distancing by staying home as much as possible.
If you do need to go outside to pickup groceries, medicine, or anything else you need, stay at least 6 feet apart from others and disinfect items that you have to touch.
When in all public settings, wear a cloth face covering that covers your nose and mouth. For more information, including how to make one, on cloth face coverings, see here.
Avoid eating or drinking at bars or restaurants. Instead, try to use deliveries, drive-through, and takeout in order to limit in-person contact.
Avoid discretionary or non-essential travel and social visits.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after touching a frequently used surface. You may also use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol, but washing hands is preferable.
Avoid touching your face.
Cough or sneeze into a tissue or into the inside of your elbow to prevent the release of infected droplets in the air.
People with COVID-19 have reported a wide range of symptoms, ranging from mild to severe. Below are the symptoms that may appear 2-14 days after being exposed to the virus.
Fever
Cough
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Chills
Repeated shaking with chills
Muscle pain
Headache
Sore throat
New loss of taste or smell
The CDC has created a guide to help you make informed decisions and seek appropriate care. You may visit the CDC's self-checker by clicking the "Self-Checker" button here.
If you have any of the symptoms above you may have COVID-19. Most people have mild illness and are able to recover at home. You should monitor your symptoms, stay at home, and separate yourself from others. If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19, contact your medical provider immediately.
Please seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of the below* emergency warning signs:
Trouble breathing
Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
New confusion or inability to arouse
Bluish lips or face
*This list is not all inclusive. The CDC recommends consulting with your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning to you.
Call 911 if you have a medical emergency and tell the operator you think you may have COVID-19. Before help comes, if possible, put a cloth face mask on.
Yes, there are, most notably the elderly, people with asthma, people with HIV, and people with other risk factors: diabetes, severe obesity, serious heart conditions, and more. We recommend reading about people who need to take extra precautions from the CDC here.
Testing for COVID-19 differs by location. If you believe you have symptoms and want to get tested, please call your medical provider first. You may also visit your state or local healthcare department websites and look for the latest information about testing. Below are links to this guide's focus areas. Please click the above links for the full list of states and counties.
Bay Area
Chicago
New York
Disclaimer: We may not have the capacity to continually update this page per new guidance, nor are we medical experts. This page is intended to keep you informed, but up to date information should be found by navigating to the CDC link above. If you are feeling sick or feel you may be experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, your doctor, local health officials, and the CDC are your best sources of information, not this website :).