COVID-19 (Coronavirus): What You Need To Know

At Wilson Health, we want to assure you our focus remains on the health and well-being of our patients, providers, staff and community. Our planning and preparation for COVID-19 (Coronavirus) started back in January and we continue to work closely with our public health partners and have ongoing engagement at the regional, state and federal levels.

It is important for our community to be informed and have access to reliable information. Here is some important information about the disease and what you need to know.

We've created a COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Information and Resources page to keep you updated on the situation.

What is Coronavirus (COVID-19)?

A novel coronavirus is a new coronavirus that has not been previously identified. The virus causing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), is not the same as the coronaviruses that commonly circulate among humans and cause mild illness, like the common cold.

Patients with COVID-19 will be evaluated and cared for differently than patients with common coronavirus diagnosis.

How Does the COVID-19 Spread?

This virus was first detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China. The first infections were linked to a live animal market, but the virus is now spreading from person-to-person. It’s important to note that person-to-person spread can happen on a continuum. Some viruses are highly contagious (like measles), while other viruses are less so.

The virus that causes COVID-19 seems to be spreading easily and sustainably in the community (“community spread”) in some affected geographic areas. Community spread means people have been infected with the virus in an area, including some who are not sure how or where they became infected.

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

The following symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure.

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath

What should I do if I have these symptoms?

If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, call your primary care provider first. Please do not go directly to your doctor’s office or emergency department without calling first. Our medical teams are prepared to provide a COVID-19 screening over the phone and determine next steps for patients.

Wilson Health Virtual Care is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to video chat or talk with a licensed medical provider from the comfort of your home, minimizing the risk of exposure to yourself and others.

Wilson Health Virtual Care medical providers are here to help. If you have symptoms of the virus, our providers can assess your condition and help determine the necessary next steps, all from the comfort of your home.
 

How can you protect yourself and your family?

There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.

The virus 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.

The best ways to protect yourself are:

• Washing your hands with sanitizer or using soap and water for at least 20 seconds; not touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands; and avoiding contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay at home, avoid contact with others, and cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough. 

There is a lot of media coverage and information sharing about COVID-19. Wilson Health recommends the following resources for reliable, accurate and timely information:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has a dedicated website for the coronavirus (COVID-19). This site provides regular updates about the disease, including how it is spread, prevention tactics, treatment, and answers to frequently asked questions.
   
• The Ohio Department of Health has opened a call center to answer questions regarding COVID-19. The call center is open 7 days a week from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and can be reached at 1-833-427-5634.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)