FAST FACTS

What is COVID-19 (Novel Coronavirus)

A novel coronavirus is a new coronavirus that has not been previously identified. The virus causing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), is not the same as the coronaviruses that commonly circulate among humans and cause mild illness, like the common cold.

How is the Virus Spread

The virus that causes COVID-19 seems to be spreading easily and sustainably in the community (“community spread”) in some affected geographic areas. The virus is thought to spread mainly between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 fee) through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It also may be possible that a person get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it, and then, touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly eyes.

What are the symptoms

The following symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure.*

Fever
Cough
Shortness of breath

How can you protect yourself

- There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.
- Practice Social Distancing. Stay 6 feet apart and avoid gatherings of 10 or more people.
- Wear a face covering that covers your nose and mouth while in public when you cannot practice social distancing.
- Clean your hands often
  - Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
  - If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and let them air dry.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow. Throw used tissues in the trash. Immediately wash your hands.
- Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.

What To Do If You Are Ill (For Any Reason):

Do NOT immediately visit the ER, Urgent Care or show up at your doctor’s office. State health officials and the CDC say doing so can only put you and others at risk.
Please first call your primary care physician. If you do not have a primary care physician in place at this time, you may call:

- - Crossing Healthcare at (217) 877-9117

If you are an otherwise healthy individual, the Illinois Department of Public Health advises you to stay home, distance yourself from others, practice good hygiene and treat yourself for symptoms as you would the flu. That includes staying hydrated, getting plenty of sleep and (if advised by your physician) taking over the counter medicine to reduce fever and symptoms.