Still, heres what you should do.
If youre sniffling and sneezing up a storm, its very unlikely you caught COVID-19.
Even if you have a fever and a cough, pleasedont panic.
Colds and flu circulate year round and increase every winter, and this year is no exception.
For reasons we dont yet understand, children dont seem to get severe cases.
Seek medical care if you have these symptoms.
Maybe its coronavirus, maybe its something else threatening your health.
If you have a relationship with a primary care provider, call them up and ask for advice.
They may say to come in, but they may also be able to save you a trip.
(Here arethe CDCs instructionsfor healthcare providers, if youre curious.)
TheCDC has recommendations for partners, roommates, and caregiversto avoid spreading the infection.
Among them:
The sick person should use a separate bedroom and bathroom if possible.
Both of you should wear a face mask when youre in the same room.
The sick person should avoid contact with pets, if possible.
We dont yet know whether COVID-19 can be transmitted to and from animals.
Itprobablyisnt an issue with household pets, but the CDC recommends this step just in case.
Clean high touch surfaces every day, including doorknobs, keyboards, countertops, and bathroom fixtures.
Clean up bodily fluids, of course, and use gloves and a mask while you do it.
Keep up with the laundry.
Monitor the patients symptoms and help them follow their providers instructions.
If youre on your own, do your best to take care of yourself along the same lines.
