While there is controversy over the real risks of COVID-19, there’s no question people over 80 and individuals with an impaired immune system or other medical problems such as lung or heart disease are more at risk of severe illness or death if they contract the virus. We’re learning more about COVID-19 every day, including how it spreads and what can be done to prevent illness. We are actively monitoring the progression of information as issued by the Center for Disease Control (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO) and our local and state governments.

Navigating all of the information can be overwhelming. Staying informed and practicing the preventative measures we’ve listed below can help women stay healthy.

Symptoms

Symptoms for the COVID-19 virus are similar to the cold or flu and may take up to 14 days to appear after exposure. Be vigilant as severe cases may lead to further health complications.

Symptoms may include:

• Fever
• Runny Nose and Sneezing
• Cough & Sore Throat
• Difficulty Breathing
• Headache
• Chills and Fatigue
• Muscle Pain & Weakness

Prevention

The World Health Organization and CDC recommend the following prevention measures:

• Wash Hands Frequently
  Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Practice Respiratory Hygiene
  Cough or sneeze into your elbow or tissues – discard tissues and clean hands immediately.
• Avoid Touching Your Eyes, Nose & Mouth
  Hands touch many surfaces that can be contaminated with the virus. If you touch your eyes, nose, and mouth with your contaminated hands, you can transfer the virus from the surface to yourself.
• Social Distancing
  Stay home when you’re sick. Maintain at least 3 feet distance between yourself and other people, particularly someone who is coughing or sneezing. Refrain from shaking hands to minimize the potential spread of germs.
• Disinfect Surfaces
  Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Seek Medical Care Early
  If you have a fever, cough and have difficulty breathing, seek medical care early and tell your health care provider if you have traveled in an area where the virus has been reported, or if you have been in close contact with someone who has traveled to those areas who has respiratory symptoms.

If you have mild respiratory symptoms and no travel history to areas identified with the virus, seek medical care and be sure to take preventative measures, such as hand washing and respiratory hygiene and stay home until you are recovered, if possible.

For updates and more information please visit www.CDC.gov, the Center for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC).