The Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) has become an international health concern. In the best interest and health of our members and families, please be aware of the COVID-19 symptoms, precautions to protect yourself, and what you need to do should you be infected with this virus or come into contact with someone that has been diagnosed with COVID-19.
This virus can spread to anyone regardless of their race or ethnicity. Those who have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19 or individuals who live in or have recently traveled to an area with an increased risk of exposure are at a higher risk of exposure. COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that is mainly spread from person to person in close contact through respiratory droplets from an infected person’s cough or sneeze. Symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, cough, and shortness of breath. These symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that there are several things you can do to keep yourself and others healthy. The following are some simple examples of ways to help in avoiding contracting COVID-19 and other viruses:
- Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after blowing your nose, coughing, sneezing, going to the bathroom, and before eating or preparing food.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw that tissue in the trash.
If you have come into contact with someone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19 or have recently traveled from an area with a widespread or ongoing community spread of COVID-19, you should stay at home and isolate yourself from others. Contact your health care provider for instructions on home isolation. If your illness worsens, call your doctor prior to seeking care and advise them that you have, or need to be evaluated for COVID-19.
Our staff has been advised to avoid air travel, if possible, and to utilize telephone and/or email communications with their colleagues and members.
Please take a few moments to review the attached information from the CDC regarding this virus. For more detailed information, please download the CDC’s COVID-19 fact sheets or visit the CDC’s website on COVID-19 at:
