The virus that causes COVID-19 probably emerged from an animal source, but is now spreading from person to person. The virus is thought to spread mainly between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet) through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It also may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.Learn what is known about the spread of newly emerged coronaviruses by clicking here.

People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness.

Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms or combinations of symptoms may have COVID-19:

• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Or at least two of these symptoms:

• Fever
• Chills
• Repeated shaking with chills
• Muscle pain
• Headache
• Sore throat
• New loss of taste or smell

This list is not all inclusive. Please consult your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning to you.

More information is available on the U.S. CDC’s What You Should Know page.

The CDC has also created a Self-Checker guide to help you make decisions and seek appropriate medical care. Visit the CDC’s Symptoms of Coronavirus page here, the Self-Checker button is located on the right side of the screen.

The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.

People can help protect themselves from respiratory illness with everyday preventive actions.
• Self-Distancing: Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.

If you are sick, to keep from spreading respiratory illness to others, you should
• Self-Isolate: Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Avoid Travel, if possible. 

Learn more about the recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control for Higher Risks individuals by clicking here. 

CDC Fact Sheets & Resources

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and you

COVID-19 Coronavirus Disease: Share Facts, Not Fear

What to do if you are sick with 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV)

CDC: Use of Cloth Face Coverings to Help Slow the Spread of COVID-19

CDC: Checklist to Stay Healthy for Older Persons

Important Information About Your Cloth Face Coverings

CDC Guidance: Deciding to Go Out

 

White House Task Force

Coronavirus.gov

 

Helpful Links:

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) advice for the public: Myth busters

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information from the CDC

Information for Travelers from the CDC

Information on How to Prepare from the CDC

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau: Tips to stay on top of your finances during the coronavirus pandemic

 

Webinars:

CDC Webinar Recording: Underlying Medical Conditions and People at Higher Risk for COVID

Med Tac Bystander Rescue Care Webinar; Coronavirus – Protecting You & Your Family: First Responder & Family Briefing

Finding Balance During Covid-19
Webinar Hosted by Tri-State Learning Collaborative on Aging
View the recorded webinar and presentation materials here

Northern New England Response to Covid-19
Webinar Hosted by Tri-State Learning Collaborative on Aging
View the recorded webinar and presentation materials here

Engaging Community Food Sources During Covid-19
Webinar Hosted by Tri-State Learning Collaborative on Aging
View the recorded webinar and presentation materials here

Additional Resources:

Optum, part of UnitedHealth Group, is opening its Emotional-Support Help Line. Professionally trained mental health staff are there to support people who may be suffering from fear or stress over COVID-19. Optum’s Emotional-Support Help Line number is 866-342-6892 and will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The service is free of charge and open to anyone.

For LGBTQ older people and those aging with HIV that are worried, stressed or in need of help, know that the @SAGEUSA hotline is available for you here: 1-877-360- LGBT(5428)

Please click the tabs below for state specific links to updates and resources.