7 things you need to know about Coronovirus (COVID-19)

 As of today, there are no confirmed cases of Coronavirus in the state of Texas, but there has been at least one patient tested in Travis county. This makes the reality of this "pandemic" much more real as it strikes close to home. Impact Family Wellness is committed to staying up to date and keeping our members educated on the facts related to the spread of Coronavirus. We have complied a list of the top 7 things you need to know about COVID-19.

1. What is coronavirus?

     - Coronavirus belongs to a family of viruses that primarily attack the upper respiratory system. This is not a new virus, just a new strain of an old virus. The common cold is a strand of the coronavirus, as well as SARS and MERS. They are basically all siblings of the same family.

2. How does it spread?

    - The coronavirus family mainly spreads through respiratory droplets that are formed with someone infected with the virus coughs or sneezes. It is most commonly spread between people within 6 feet of one another.

3. What are the symptoms?

    - Cough, fever, and shortness of breath are the most common symptoms. According to the CDC, 81% of people found to have COVID-19 have noted "mild to even no symptoms". Symptoms typically occur 2-14 days after exposure to the virus.

4. Is there a treatment?

     - There is not currently an antiviral on the market that treats COVID-19. Much like the common cold, it is all about symptom management with anti-inflammatories, cough medications, rest, and fluids.

5. How do I avoid getting it?

    - WASH YOUR HANDS!!! Seriously, washing your hands is the #1 way to avoid coronavirus and any other   infection out there.

    - Avoid close contact with sick people

    - Stay home when you are sick

    - Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue and throw it in the trash

    - Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects (i.e. your phone, keyboard)

    - Stop buying facemasks if you aren't sick! These are for sick people to reduce the spread, not for healthy people

6. Is there a test for it?

    - Yes, and as of Monday, March 9th, Impact Family Wellness will have the supplies to perform the test. We do not have a cost of this test but will keep you updated as soon as we know.

7. What do I do if I get sick?

    - This is the beauty of Impact Family Wellness . . . just send us a text or call! No need to come in. We can treat your symptoms over the phone and you don't even have to leave your house!

If you want more information make sure you are using a reliable source. Your friends on Facebook are not considered reliable :).

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/index.html

https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/q-a-coronaviruses

https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public