A new form of coronavirus is making its way around the globe, and as of February 4, 2020, there have been five confirmed cases of coronavirus here in Canada.
While this may seem alarming, there are ways to limit potential exposure to the virus. Read on to learn more about coronavirus and how Care& Family Health can help keep you and your loved ones safe with our telemedicine call service.
As with most viruses, there are several forms of coronavirus, with Novel Coronavirus being the newest occurrence.
Coronavirus is a type of virus that infects your respiratory system. While coronaviruses have been around for some time, the recent outbreak is a new strain that causes symptoms similar to a common cold, which include:
Symptoms can show up as late as 14 days after being exposed.
Although rare, coronavirus can lead to more severe health issues, and as of now, it’s hard to determine who is at the highest risk. But, the World Health Organization reports that the elderly and patients with pre-existing health conditions are more likely to get severely ill.
Those infected with coronavirus have either traveled to China recently or came into close contact with someone who did. And like other respiratory infections, the virus spreads from airborne particles or droplets from sneezing or coughing.
To help lower your risk of catching coronavirus, wash your hands often with either alcohol-based sanitizer or soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Try not to touch your eyes, nose or mouth, and avoid people who are sneezing or coughing, if possible.
Since the symptoms of coronavirus replicate that of a common cold, it’s hard to determine if you have it without seeing a medical professional. But, when you visit a hospital or clinic, you have a higher risk of contracting the virus.
Fortunately, if you’re concerned with your symptoms, Care& Family Health can help with our telemedicine call service.
Similar to an in-person visit, telemedicine allows your Nurse Practitioner (NP) to screen your respiratory symptoms without leaving your home, so you’re not exposing yourself or your loved ones to coronavirus.
And if your Care& Family Health NP determines you need additional testing, you can use our app to schedule an at-home visit, and can better arm yourself if you do need to visit a hospital.
If you or a loved one is showing signs of respiratory illness, get in touch with Care& Family Health today.
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