Also known as COVID-19, the coronavirus is part of a larger family of viruses common among people and animals alike. Coronavirus attacks a person’s respiratory system, and currently there is no known cure.
Unfortunately, there’s a lot of panic and confusion happening surrounding this virus. So here at Gilreath & Associates, we want to help get the facts straight and make sure you’re taking care of yourself and your loved ones during this difficult time.
Follow these tips to avoid catching or spreading the coronavirus.
Signs and symptoms of COVID-19
If you are coughing, sneezing, running a fever or having difficulty breathing, seek medical advice immediately. While these are common symptoms of coronavirus, it can also be a sign of the flu, a cold or other respiratory disease.
If you’ve been diagnosed with COVID-19, it’s best to stay home and treat the virus like a common cold or flu. Drink lots of warm fluids, stay hydrated and get lots of rest. If your symptoms worsen and you have difficulty breathing, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital.
These are the best things you can do to recover, as there is currently no vaccine available to treat coronavirus.
How to avoid getting (and spreading) coronavirus
As with any virus, washing your hands is a key to prevention. It’s the easiest and one of the most effective ways of preventing germs from getting into your body via your eyes, nose and mouth. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using soap and running water to wash hands for at least 20 seconds after using the bathroom, blowing your nose, sneezing and eating.
Another preventative measure the CDC recommends is for everyone to avoid touching their eyes, nose and mouth, as this can quickly spread germs.
Coronavirus sources and information
Thanks to the internet, it’s easier than ever to search for and access information about any number of topics, including the coronavirus, as well as share it with the rest of the world.
But where is this information coming from?
Unfortunately, not all sources are trustworthy, so we’ve compiled a list of websites that Tennesseeans can go to for accurate and up-to-date information on how to take care of themselves and their families during this time.
1. CDC
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is one of the first websites Tennesseeans should visit to find out about how to protect themselves, learn about the symptoms of COVID-19, and discover what to do if you get sick.
2. TN.gov
The Tennessee state government also has a web page containing a list of resources for the public, small businesses, news media, FAQs, and remote assessment sites people can visit if they think they’ve contracted COVID-19.
3. WHO.int
The World Health Organization is “the directing and coordinating authority on international health within the United Nations system,” with branches around the world to provide health and safety information to all people. WHO has a webpage dedicated to live updates, number of confirmed cases, health advice, and more concerning the coronavirus.
Gilreath & Associates encourages everyone to follow these tips and take preventative measures.
With 3 locations and over 30 years of experience, our team of lawyers is committed to ensuring you receive quality representation even amidst these difficult times. We continue to remain open and available for free consultations if you or a loved are suffering from a personal injury or medical malpractice.