Our patients have concerns what should one do if they suspect they have COVID-19 (Coronavirus) or have been tested positive?
Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that can cause illnesses such as the common cold, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS). In 2019, a new coronavirus was identified as the cause of a disease outbreak that originated in China.
The virus is now known as the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The disease it causes is called coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in a growing number of countries, including the U.S. Public health groups, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), are monitoring the situation and posting updates on their websites. WHO declared a global pandemic in March 2020. These groups have also issued recommendations for preventing and treating the illness.
Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of COVID-19 may appear two to 14 days after exposure and can include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Other symptoms can include:
- Tiredness
- Aches
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
The severity of COVID-19 symptoms can range from very mild to severe. Some people have no symptoms. People who are older or have existing chronic medical conditions, such as heart or lung disease or diabetes, may be at higher risk of serious illness. This is similar to what is seen with other respiratory illnesses, such as influenza.
Home quarantine instructions:
1. Restrict mobility to your room for 14 days and minimize contact with family members and other people.
2. Drink plenty of water.
3. Take Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) 200 mg Tablet. Take 2 tablets twice a day for 1 day, followed by 1 tablet twice a day for next 4 days. (Caution: Pregnant females and patients on anti-epilepsy medications should not be taking this)
4. Take Cetirizine OR Loratadine. 10mg Tablet. One a day for 14 days.
5. In case of fever > 101.5 F , consider taking acetaminophen (Tylenol) 325 mg, 2 tablets 2-3 times a day while the fever lasts.
6. Keep wearing face mask all the time.
7. Wash your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds : after sneezing or coughing, before and after having food, before and after toilet use.
8. Visit hospital if you continue to feel worse over time, especially if you have difficulty breathing or feel like you may pass out.
9. Call your primary care doctor‘s office for further guidance. Your doctor can most likely do tele-visit with you over internet.