Coronavirus: How to Protect Yourself

American flag as a medical mask over the globe

How to Protect Yourself from Coronavirus

The coronavirus COVID-19, which started in China, is now affecting 127 countries around the world, including the United States.

The latest statistics reveal there are 3807 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the US, 68 of those are in our home state of Texas.

This a deadly virus, and we should all be proactive in trying to avoid it.

American congressional body

What is Coronavirus?

This family of viruses get their name from the knobs that surround them and give it the appearance of a crown.

The coronavirus causes several respiratory illnesses that range from the common cold to more severe diseases like SARS and MERS, which are life-threatening.

The Wuhan coronavirus known as COVID-19 is a previously unknown strain of the virus. Therefore, there is no vaccine available for it.

coronavirus graphic

How Does it Spread?

According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, human coronavirus usually spreads from one infected person to another through:

  • Droplets released into the air by coughing and sneezing
  • Close contact, such as touching or shaking hands
  • Touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes
  • Rarely, fecal contamination

Know Where to Go in Case of an Emergency.

Symptoms of Coronavirus

Those patients with confirmed 2019-nCoV develop respiratory infections which range from mild to severe, the most common symptoms include:

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath

Since little is known about this strain of coronavirus, scientists don’t know how soon symptoms appear. However, the CDC believes symptoms can manifest in as little as two or as long as 14 days after exposure.

coronavirus symptoms

How to Protect Yourself from Coronavirus and Other Respiratory Viruses

There are no vaccines available to prevent human coronavirus infection. However, there are ways to reduce the risk of contagion; these include:

  • Washing your hands often and for at least 20 seconds with soap and water
  • Avoid touching your mouth, eyes, or nose with unwashed hands
  • Prevent close contact with people who are sick

Additionally, if you are ill and your symptoms are mild and don’t require hospitalization, you can help prevent the spread of the disease by:

  • Stay home while you are sick
  • Isolate yourself to avoid contact with others
  • Always cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Make sure you throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands afterward
  • clean and disinfect objects and surfaces you touch
American flag behind a vile with "COVID 19" text

What to Do if You Get Infected?

If you develop any of these symptoms, come to Altus Emergency Centers to be evaluated.

We recommend you call us ahead of time so we can prepare an exam room where you won’t be in close contact with any of our other patients.

As part of our commitment to helping keep the members of our community safe, Altus President Kevin Herrington attended the Corona Virus hearings held in Washington, Feb. 26.

Attending these congressional hearings gives us a better outlook on the spread of COVID-19 and its possible economic and medical implications.

At Altus Emergency Centers we are keeping a close eye on the spread of the COVID-19 virus, and we have taken steps to ensure our services are not affected, so our patients continue to receive the best possible care.

Men at dinner
Altus Emergency Room Baytown

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