Four facts you need to know about COVID-19

Healthcare experts learn something new about COVID-19 almost on a daily basis. But in this ever-changing world filled with many questions and not a whole lot of answers, there are a few things experts know for certain.

Here are four of them:

1. No one is immune to COVID-19

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that spreads from person to person. Yes, there are those at higher risk of getting severely ill from the disease – the elderly, those with chronic conditions, such as heart disease or diabetes, and those with compromised immune systems. But, anyone can be infected with this virus. It does not discriminate. There are COVID-19 cases in every state in America, and it’s infected – and killed – the youngest to the oldest. 

2. You can help stop the spread of COVID-19 by knowing the signs and symptoms

The most common symptoms of COVID-19 include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if you have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19 or if you live in or have recently been in an area with ongoing spread of COVID-19, you should seek medical advice. 

3. It’s possible to have COVID-19 and not know it

You may not experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you’re virus-free. Some people who have tested positive for COVID-19 have shown no symptoms. Asymptomatic people can still spread the virus. 

Additionally, people can have – and spread – the virus before symptoms start to appear. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says symptoms can appear in as little as two days after infection up to 14 days after infection. 

4. There are simple, everyday things you can do to keep yourself and others healthy

There are actions you can take right now to avoid getting and spreading COVID-19. These include: 

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water aren’t readily available, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer is an option.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth 
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue or the sleeve of your arm
• Clean and disinfect surfaces that are touched often – doorknobs, light switches, toys, etc.
• Stay home when you are sick
• Keep away from people who are sick
• Practice Social Distancing. If you go out in public, maintain at least six feet of space between yourself and others.
• Avoid gathering in groups of more than 10 people