- Tests for COVID-19 are in short supply and testing in our office is challenging due to the high transmissibility of illness. COVID-19 testing will not change the course of illness for most patients as there is no specific treatment for Coronavirus. Therefore, we are only testing our sickest patients at this time.
- During an epidemic, all patients with respiratory or flu-like symptoms and presumed COVID-19 should self-quarantine to prevent additional transmission of infection. You can read more on the CDC page – https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html and Virginia Department of Health page – http://www.vdh.virginia.gov/coronavirus/
- Stay at home except to get medical care – Do not go to work, school, or public areas. Avoid using public transportation, ride-sharing, or taxis.
- Separate yourself from other people and animals in your home
- Wear a facemask (if available)
- Cover your coughs and sneezes
- Clean your hands often
- Avoid sharing personal household items
- Clean all “high-touch” surfaces everyday
- Stay on home isolation- for 14 days or until cleared by your doctor.
- Monitor patient symptoms- Seek prompt medical attention if your illness is worsening (e.g., difficulty breathing). Before seeking in-person care, call your healthcare provider and tell them that you have respiratory symptoms and possibly COVID-19.
- If you have a medical emergency and need to call 911, notify the dispatch personnel that you have respiratory symptoms and possibly COVID-19. If possible, put on a facemask before emergency medical services arrive.