COVID-19 cases continue to reach record-setting numbers here in South Florida as the virus has approached critical mass, out-passing the highest number of positive COVID-19 cases in a single day in New York at the height of their worst day of the epidemic in April. By now, if you, or someone you know personally have not been infected by this virus, it will only be a matter of time when that will occur in places such as here in South Florida. But this is not the time to panic. This is the time to be smart and take proactive measures to reduce our risk of exposure and to slow the spread of the virus to others in our communities so that we can quickly and safely get back to life before Covid-19.
We are all aware by now that proper hygiene practices, wearing masks and practicing social distancing are all key to protecting ourselves and most importantly, others around us who may have weaker immune systems and could become very ill from the virus. But what if by even practicing all those things, you still find yourself in a situation in which you have been exposed to the virus? What should you do?
The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), provides the following guidelines for persons who believe that they have been exposed to COVID-19:
- Stay home until 14 days after last exposure and maintain social distance (at least 6 feet) from others at all times.
- Self-monitor for symptoms – check temperature twice a day; watch for fever ( defined as subjective fever – feeling “feverish” – or a measured temperature of 100.4°F /38°C or higher), cough, or shortness of breath, or other symptoms of COVID-19.
- Avoid contact with people at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19.
- Follow CDC guidance if symptoms develop.
To speak with a healthcare provider to assess any non-emergency health concerns, including suspected COVID-19 symptoms, please call (305)751-1500 for our Miami-Dade clinic or (954)289-0000 for our Broward clinic. For life-threatening emergencies, always call 911. For coronavirus updates and resources, please visit our website at www.primarymed.com. Source: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nocov/php/public-health-recommendations.html