What is the coronavirus

Coronavirus is a class of virus. There are many types of human coronaviruses including some that commonly cause mild upper-respiratory tract illnesses. COVID-19 is a new disease, caused by a coronavirus that has not previously been seen in humans.

Paloma Health doctors recommend staying up-to-date on new information regarding COVID-19 as we are learning more about the virus every day.

Which body fluids can spread the virus?

COVID-19 is spread through close contact from person to person via respiratory droplets like sneezes and coughs—especially between people who are physically near each other (within about 6 feet). When people with COVID-19 cough, sneeze, sing, talk, or breathe, they produce respiratory droplets. Respiratory droplets cause infection when they are inhaled or deposited on mucous membranes, like those inside the nose and mouth.

‍Paloma Health doctors recommend taking precautions to slow the spread. The best way to prevent illness is to avoid exposure to this virus. Steps to slow the spread include wearing a mask that covers your nose and mouth, avoiding crowds or poorly ventilated indoor spaces, staying six feet apart from others, wash your hands often, and get a COVID-19 vaccine when it is available to you.

Do individuals with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 need to be admitted to the hospital?

Not all people who are infected with the COVID-19 virus require hospitalization. It’s determined on a case-by-case basis depending on the person's ability to engage in remote monitoring, the ability for safe isolation at home, the severity of symptoms, and the risk of transmission in the person's home environment.

How is COVID-19 treated?

If you contract COVID-19, work with your healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan. Do not attempt to treat this disease on your own, as people have been seriously harmed after taking products not approved for COVID-19. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved one drug, remdesivir (Veklury), to treat COVID-19 in the hospital. The FDA may also issue emergency use authorizations to let healthcare providers use products that are not yet approved to treat patients with COVID-19 if they meet specific legal requirements. Your healthcare provider may also recommend taking acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce fever, drinking water or receiving intravenous fluids to stay hydrated, and getting plenty of rest to help your body beat the virus.

Can people who recover from COVID-19 be infected again?

Cases of reinfection with COVID-19 have been reported, but remain rare​.​ While the CDC is still actively working to learn more about reinfection, at this time, whether you had COVID-19 or not, the best way to prevent infection is to protect yourself by wearing a mask in public, maintaining physical distance from others, washing your hands, and avoiding crowds.

Can someone who does not have symptoms transmit the virus?

Yes, people who are infected but do not show symptoms can also spread the virus to others.

Myself or one of my loved ones is at higher risk. What should I do?

Paloma Health recommends:
- Stocking up on extra medication, supplies, and groceries in the event you need stay home
- Washing your hands frequently and disinfecting items you touch frequently
- Maintaining physical distance between yourself and others, and avoiding crowds
- Getting the COVID-19 vaccination when it becomes available to you
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Older adults and people who have severe chronic medical conditions like heart, lung or kidney disease are at higher risk for more serious COVID-19 illness. If you or a loved one are at increased risk for COVID-19 complications due to age or severe underlying medical conditions, it is especially important for you to take actions to reduce your risk of exposure.

Should I wear a mask for prevention?

The CDC recommends that people wear masks in public settings where they will be around other people. As of February 2, 2021, masks are required on planes, buses, trains, and other forms of public transportation traveling into, within, or out of the United States and in U.S. transportation hubs like airports and bus stations.

When should I contact a doctor?

If you develop symptoms related to COVID-19, get tested. You can visit your state, tribal, local, or territorial health department's website to find the latest local testing sites' information. While waiting for test results, we recommend that you stay away from others, including staying apart from those living in your household.

If you have emergency warning signs for COVID-19 (including trouble breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion, inability to stay awake, or pale, gray, or blue-colored skins, lips, or nails), seek emergency medical care immediately. Call 911 or call ahead to your local emergency facility.

What can I do to support my immunity?

Supporting your immune system may help to lessen the severity if you get sick.

Paloma Health doctors recommend:
- Eating a nutrient-dense diet, avoiding processed foods
- Exercising regularly and getting adequate sleep
‍- Minimizing stress tise and meditation
- Limiting alcohol and smoking
- Taking steps to avoid infection, such as frequent hand washing.

Should I work from home?

This depends on a number of factors, including your health and where you live or work. Whether or not you are staying home, keep in mind you should practice social distancing (for example avoiding large sporting events and concerts) and avoid other public spaces.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC)

The World Health Organization (WHO)

Number of cases state by state