What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is novel coronavirus that is a pandemic according to the World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). A pandemic means there is widespread disease worldwide. This virus spreads very rapidly from person to person when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or simply talks.

INFECTED PEOPLE CAN SHOW NO SYMPTOMS AND STILL SPREAD THE DISEASE TO OTHERS

To protect yourself and others from contracting this virus, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) have recommended the following measures:

• Wash your hands with warm water and soap for 20 seconds or more. You can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if you cannot wash your hands.

• Practice social distancing Stay at home and avoid crowded areas. Stay 6 OR MORE FEET away from others

• WEAR FACIAL COVERINGS WHEN IN PUBLIC. This is important in preventing the spread of the virus.

If you have any of the usual symptoms (fever, chills, cough, runny nose, body aches, loss of taste or smell, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea), or if you have had contact with anyone sick:

• Isolate yourself from others at home for 14 days until symptoms are gone

• Stay away from elderly people, or people with chronic diseases (high blood pressure, diabetes, lung disease, cancer, immune diseases, etc.)

For more information and accurate updates on COVID-19, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html and https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/infectiousdiseases/2019-coronavirus.html

We have made changes to our office to protect the patients and office staff during this pandemic. Visit