COVID-19 Safety Tips for Those At Risk
Older people and people with serious, long-term medical conditions like heart disease and diabetes are at greater risk of contracting the COVID-19 virus.
Check out these guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for people who are at a higher risk:
- Practice good handwashing habits. Use soap and water and wash for at least 30 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol.
- Practice social distancing. Avoid crowds and stay away from public places. Even low-risk people should stay home to avoid spreading symptoms. If you believe you have COVID-19, call your doctor instead of going to a clinic or emergency room.
- Avoid non-essential travel and stay home as much as possible. Schedule your groceries and other supplies to be delivered to your home. If you must go out in public, wash your hands often, avoid frequently touched surfaces like handrails and elevator buttons and keep at a distance from others.
- Stay away from people who are sick, including people in your own home. This may mean sleeping alone or avoiding close contact with family members.
- Maintain an ample supply of food, household items and prescription medications at home. Your doctor can help you obtain an extra supply of your medications.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces in your home.
- Be aware of the symptoms of COVID-19, including shortness of breath, fever and cough. Call your doctor if you notice these symptoms.
Memorial Health System has processes in place at our hospitals and affiliate locations to screen and identify potential cases of infectious disease, including COVID-19. We are prepared to safely care for patients. For more information about the public health response to novel coronavirus 2019, visit the Illinois Department of Health or CDC websites.
Concerned about flu or respiratory illness?
If you feel sick and over-the-counter medications aren’t helping, speak with your primary care provider, contact virtual care or visit your nearest ExpressCare. Please call ahead if you suspect you might have COVID-19.
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